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Cheesy Ranch Chicken

A comforting, creamy dish featuring tender chicken, savory ranch flavors, and melting cheddar, perfect for weeknights or gatherings.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds Boneless skinless chicken breasts Choose for a clean canvas.
  • 8 ounces Cream cheese, full fat Bring to room temperature before cooking.
  • 1 packet Ranch seasoning Store-bought or homemade.
  • 2 cups Shredded cheddar cheese, sharp, freshly grated Use freshly grated for better melting.
  • 6 slices Cooked bacon, thick cut, crispy and crumbled Crumble for texture contrast.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Arrange the chicken breasts in the basin of a slow cooker or the pot of an Instant Pot.
  2. Tuck portions of the cream cheese among the pieces and sprinkle the ranch seasoning evenly across the top.
Cooking
  1. Slow cooker method: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the chicken pulls apart with little resistance.
  2. Instant Pot method: Add 1 cup of water, seal, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then allow a 10-minute natural release before quickly releasing any remaining pressure.
Finishing
  1. Remove the chicken and shred it with forks until tender and moist.
  2. Return the shredded chicken to the cooking vessel and stir with the softened cream cheese and remaining ranch seasoning.
  3. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
  4. Fold in the crispy crumbled bacon and serve warm.

Notes

Cool to room temperature, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 3 months.