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Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken Pasta Recipe Easy and Perfect for Dinner

creamy crockpot crack chicken pasta - featured image

A comforting and creamy slow cooker pasta dish featuring tender shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep and maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (about 4 ounces)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 4 ounces)
  • 1 cup chicken broth (240 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or shells), cooked separately
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: cooked bacon bits, chopped green onions, red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Place 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in the crockpot. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Cut the softened 8 ounces of cream cheese into chunks and scatter over the chicken. Sprinkle the entire packet of ranch seasoning evenly on top.
  3. Add 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Stir gently to combine slightly but do not fully mix.
  4. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender and shreds easily.
  5. Remove chicken and shred with forks or tongs. Return shredded chicken to the crockpot and stir to mix into the sauce.
  6. Mix in 1 cup shredded cheddar and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese. Stir gently until melted and combined.
  7. Cook 8 ounces of pasta separately according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
  8. Add the drained pasta to the crockpot and stir well to coat with the creamy sauce.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Add optional cooked bacon bits or chopped green onions if desired.
  10. Serve warm immediately.

Notes

Add pasta at the end to avoid mushiness. Use low sodium chicken broth to control saltiness. For gluten-free, substitute pasta with brown rice or chickpea pasta. Dairy-free options available with alternative cheeses and milk substitutes. Leftovers keep well for up to 3 days refrigerated; reheat gently with added broth or milk.

Nutrition

Keywords: crack chicken, crockpot, slow cooker, creamy pasta, chicken pasta, easy dinner, weeknight meal, comfort food