Crack Chicken Pasta
If you are craving something creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this one is so good. Everything cooks together in the slow cooker and turns into a rich and comforting meal that is super easy to throw together
Why you’ll love Crack Chicken Pasta
This recipe has that creamy ranch flavor mixed with cheese and bacon that makes every bite so good. It comes together perfectly in the slow cooker and turns into a rich and satisfying meal.
It is super simple to make and perfect for busy days when you want something easy but still really good. It is one of those recipes you will keep coming back to.
Ingredients
- 3 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 oz packet of ranch seasoning
- 1 cup of shredded colby-jack cheese
- 8 oz block of cream cheese
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- ½ cup of bacon bits or freshly chopped bacon
- 1 lb of uncooked penne pasta
How to make
- Add to the slow cooker:
- chicken breasts
- black pepper
- ranch seasoning
- colby jack cheese
- cream cheese
- chicken broth
- Set the slow cooker on high for 3 to 4 hours or low for 6 hours
- Once it is done, leave the chicken in the slow cooker and shred it with two forks or a hand mixer
- Boil and strain the pasta, then add it to the slow cooker
- Add bacon bits to the slow cooker
- Mix everything together until combined
- Add colby jack cheese
- Put the lid back on and let the cheese melt for 15 minutes
- Serve and enjoy
Leftovers/storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Since this is a pasta dish, it may thicken as it sits, so when reheating just add a splash of broth or milk and give it a stir to bring it back to a creamy consistency. It reheats really well and is just as good the next day.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use whatever pasta you have on hand. Short pastas like penne or rotini work best because they hold the sauce really well.
Do I have to cook the pasta separately?
Yes, it is best to cook it separately so it does not get overcooked in the slow cooker. Adding it at the end keeps the texture just right.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, you can swap the colby jack for something like cheddar or a blend. It will still melt well and taste great.
About me
Hi! I’m Mercedes and I am the creator of “Life with Mercedes,” a food, recipe and lifestyle blog. I’m a huge foodie, proud mom and wife! I’m based in NY and grew up in an Italian/Hispanic family. Let’s just say I ate a lot of pasta and pizza growing up, so I love sharing Italian recipes!
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Crack Chicken Pasta
If you are craving something creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this one is good. Everything cooks together in the slow cooker and turns into a comforting meal that is easy to throw together.
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
3 hours 15 mins
Total Time:
3 hours 25 mins
Serving:
08
Ingredients
- 3 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 oz packet of ranch seasoning
- 1 cup of shredded colby-jack cheese
- 8 oz block of cream cheese
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- ½ cup of bacon bits or freshly chopped bacon
- 1 lb of uncooked penne pasta
Instructions
- Add to the slow cooker:
- chicken breasts
- black pepper
- ranch seasoning
- colby jack cheese
- cream cheese
- chicken broth
- Set the slow cooker on high for 3 to 4 hours or low for 6 hours
- Once it is done, leave the chicken in the slow cooker and shred it with two forks or a hand mixer
- Boil and strain the pasta, then add it to the slow cooker
- Add bacon bits to the slow cooker
- Mix everything together until combined
- Add colby jack cheese
- Put the lid back on and let the cheese melt for 15 minutes
- Serve and enjoy
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