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Crockpot Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken

This "Crockpot Cheesy Bacon Ranch Chicken" is incredibly flavorful and satisfyingly rich. Tender chicken is slow-cooked in a creamy, cheesy ranch sauce with savory bacon, creating an irresistible low-carb meal that's bound to become a new favorite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours 55 minutes
Total Time 7 hours 5 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 634 kcal

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker – 3.5 quart or larger

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/3 lbs about 21 oz or 600g boneless, skinless chicken thighs, trimmed of noticeable fat
  • 5 slices bacon cooked until crisp, drained of fat, and crumbled or roughly chopped
  • 10 oz 283g block-style cream cheese, softened slightly
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix check label for low sugar/carb options if preferred
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions
 

  • Place the trimmed chicken thighs into the basin of your slow cooker.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the dry ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Sprinkle this seasoning blend evenly over the chicken.
  • Position the block of cream cheese directly on top of the seasoned chicken.
  • Secure the lid on the slow cooker. Cook on the LOW heat setting for 6 to 7 hours. It's best to avoid lifting the lid during this cooking phase to ensure consistent temperature and cooking.
  • After the cooking duration, once the chicken is thoroughly cooked and easily falls apart, use two forks to shred it directly within the slow cooker.
  • Stir the melted cream cheese and accumulated chicken juices thoroughly, combining them well with the shredded chicken. Gently incorporate the cooked, crumbled bacon.
  • Spread the chicken mixture into an even layer within the slow cooker. Uniformly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
  • Replace the lid and continue to heat on LOW for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheddar cheese is completely melted and bubbly.
  • Serve hot. This dish is excellent paired with cauliflower rice, fresh steamed low-carb vegetables, or served in low-carb wraps or buns for a decadent sandwich.

Notes

  • Chicken Variety: While chicken thighs are favored for their moisture and rich flavor, boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a suitable alternative. If using chicken breasts, they may cook a bit faster, so consider checking for doneness towards the earlier end of the specified cooking range.
  • Adjusting Spiciness: If you prefer a spicier dish, opt for a spicy ranch seasoning blend, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other seasonings.
  • Cheese Options: Don't hesitate to try other meltable cheeses such as Monterey Jack, a Colby-Jack blend, or even a spicy pepper jack to customize the flavor.
Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving - 1/4 of total recipe):
  • Calories: 634 kcal
  • Protein: 42.9 g
  • Total Fat: 47.5 g
  • Saturated Fat: 21.2 g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 15.5 g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.4 g
  • Trans Fat: ~1.1 g
  • Cholesterol: 188 mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8.3 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 0.5 g
  • Total Sugars: 3.4 g
  • Sodium: 970 mg
  • Potassium: 467 mg
  • Calcium: 185 mg
  • Iron: 2.1 mg
  • Vitamin D: 0.95 mcg (38 IU)
Nutritional information is estimated using USDA FoodData Central and standard ingredient values. Actual values may vary based on specific brands, ingredient preparation, and precise measurements. For strict dietary needs, calculate with your exact ingredients.