Creamy Ranch Chicken & Pasta (Slow Cooker)
Introduction
Creamy Ranch Chicken & Pasta is a comforting, family-friendly slow cooker meal made with tender chicken breasts, pasta shells, and a rich, herb-infused cream sauce. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for busy days when you want a hearty homemade dinner with minimal effort.
Origin
This dish is inspired by American slow cooker cooking traditions and the popularity of ranch seasoning in the United States. Ranch-flavored meals became especially popular in the late 20th century as convenient seasoning mixes gained widespread use in home kitchens.
Cultural Significance
Slow cooker meals like this represent comfort food in many households. They are practical, budget-friendly, and ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or weeknight dinners. The creamy ranch flavor has become a staple in American home cooking due to its versatility and crowd-pleasing taste.
Ingredients Quantity
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups uncooked medium pasta shells
• 1 packet (28 g) ranch seasoning mix
• 1 can (300 g) condensed cream of chicken soup
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional garnish)
Optional Additions
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• 1 cup baby spinach
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Cooked bacon bits for extra flavor
Tips for Success
• Sear the chicken in a skillet for 2–3 minutes per side before slow cooking for extra flavor.
• Add pasta during the last 30–40 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.
• Stir occasionally after adding pasta to ensure even cooking.
• Adjust thickness by adding more broth if needed.
• Let the dish rest 5–10 minutes before serving for a creamier texture.
Instructions
- Lightly grease the slow cooker with olive oil.
- Place chicken breasts at the bottom. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, whisk together ranch seasoning, cream of chicken soup, broth, heavy cream, and garlic.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker.
- Stir in uncooked pasta shells and mix well.
- Cover and cook on high for 30–40 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Stir in shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Description
This dish is creamy, savory, and packed with herb flavor from the ranch seasoning. The chicken becomes tender and juicy, while the pasta absorbs the rich sauce, creating a thick and comforting meal in every bite.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
• Calories: 520–600 kcal
• Protein: 35–40 g
• Carbohydrates: 35–45 g
• Fat: 25–30 g
• Calcium: 15–20% Daily Value
Values vary depending on ingredients used.
Conclusion
Creamy Ranch Chicken & Pasta is a satisfying one-pot meal that combines convenience with classic comfort flavors. It’s ideal for family dinners and easy meal prep.
Recommendation
Serve with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for balance. Warm garlic bread also pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream, whole wheat pasta, and add extra vegetables like broccoli or spinach. You can also reduce the cheese slightly while maintaining flavor with herbs and spices. This way, you enjoy the comfort while keeping it wholesome and balanced.