about contact

Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

by
Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes is a comforting, one-pot meal featuring tender chicken, creamy potatoes, crispy bacon, and a rich cheddar ranch sauce. This easy slow cooker recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and delivers hearty flavors the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy prep with minimal hands-on time
  • Hearty and filling with simple ingredients
  • Great for meal prep and leftovers
  • A delicious combination of cheesy, creamy, and savory flavors
  • The slow cooker does all the work!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1.5 pounds baby potatoes, halved
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) dry ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6-8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
  • 1 cup heavy cream or milk
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

this recipe
  1. Prepare the Slow Cooker: Lightly spray the inside of your slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
  2. Add Ingredients: Place the chicken breasts and potatoes in the slow cooker.
  3. Season and Add Liquids: Sprinkle with ranch seasoning, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and potatoes are tender.
  5. Add Cheese and Bacon: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the heavy cream, cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon. Mix well and continue cooking until the cheese is melted.
  6. Serve: Garnish with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
  • Total Time: 6.5-7.5 hours

Variations

  • Add Vegetables: Include carrots, green beans, or broccoli during the last hour of cooking.
  • Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a kick.
  • Swap the Cheese: Use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
  • Use Different Potatoes: Russet or Yukon gold potatoes work well if you don’t have baby potatoes.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Reheating: Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?

Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

2. Do I need to brown the chicken before adding it to the slow cooker?

No, browning is not necessary, but you can if you prefer a bit of extra flavor.

3. Can I use ranch dressing instead of dry ranch seasoning?

The dry seasoning works best, but if needed, you can use a few tablespoons of ranch dressing. Just reduce the liquid slightly.

4. How do I prevent the potatoes from getting mushy?

Use baby potatoes or cut larger potatoes into uniform pieces. Avoid overcooking.

5. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cheese and a non-dairy milk or cream substitute.

6. What can I serve with this dish?

A fresh salad, steamed veggies, or dinner rolls make great sides.

7. Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work well, and bone-in chicken can also be used.

8. Can I cook this on the stovetop instead?

Yes, simmer all ingredients in a large pot over medium heat until the chicken is cooked and potatoes are tender.

9. How do I make this recipe healthier?

Use reduced-fat cheese, turkey bacon, and low-sodium chicken broth for a lighter version.

10. Can I add pasta or rice to this recipe?

Yes, but it’s best to cook them separately and stir them in just before serving to avoid overcooking.

Conclusion

Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes is a simple, satisfying meal that combines rich, creamy flavors with tender chicken and potatoes. This family-friendly recipe is perfect for any night of the week and offers easy customization options to suit your tastes. Let your slow cooker do the work and enjoy a comforting, delicious dinner with minimal effort!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-7 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
  • Total Time: 7 hours
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

This Cheddar Bacon Ranch Slow Cooker Chicken and Potatoes is a hearty and comforting meal that’s super easy to make. Juicy chicken, tender potatoes, and crispy bacon are smothered in a creamy ranch and cheddar cheese sauce. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work for a delicious family dinner!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken and Potatoes:

  • 1 kg (2 lbs) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 500 g (1 lb) baby potatoes, halved (or red potatoes, diced)
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 packet (30 g) ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tablespoons homemade ranch mix)
  • 1 cup heavy cream or 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

For Garnish:

  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
  • Extra bacon crumbles (optional)

Instructions

🍲 Prepare the Ingredients:

  1. Season the Chicken:

    • In a small bowl, mix the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
    • Rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the chicken breasts or thighs.

  2. Layer in Slow Cooker:

    • Add the halved potatoes to the bottom of the slow cooker. Drizzle with olive oil and toss with a pinch of salt and pepper.
    • Place the seasoned chicken on top of the potatoes.

  3. Add Liquids:

    • Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream (or sour cream) over the chicken and potatoes.

⏲️ Cook the Chicken and Potatoes:

  1. Slow Cook:

    • Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through (75°C / 165°F internal temperature) and potatoes are tender.

  2. Add Cheese and Bacon:

    • About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the chicken.
    • Cover and cook until the cheese melts.

🥄 Serve:

  1. Garnish and Serve:

    • Sprinkle with chopped green onions or chives and extra bacon crumbles if desired.

  2. Serving Suggestions:

    • Serve hot with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Notes

  • Make It Creamier: Substitute heavy cream with cream cheese or add a can of condensed cream of chicken soup for extra creaminess.
  • Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating Tip: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist.

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star