Unbelievably Easy Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Crockpot Recipe for Low-Carb Lovers!

For those seeking a flavorful, easy-to-prepare, and low-carb meal, the Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Crockpot recipe is an excellent choice. This dish combines the savory flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing, all while being incredibly simple to make in a slow cooker. This article will guide you through various approaches to preparing this dish, highlighting its versatility, ease of preparation, and suitability for a keto lifestyle.

Why Choose a Crockpot for Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch?

A slow cooker, or crockpot, is a busy cook's best friend. It allows you to create rich and flavorful meals with minimal effort. The slow cooking process results in incredibly tender and juicy chicken, as the meat slowly cooks for hours, and it is practically a cheat code for getting rich and flavorful meals on weekdays. For individuals following a ketogenic diet, this method is particularly appealing because it allows for the incorporation of healthy fats and proteins without added carbohydrates.

Core Ingredients and Variations

The basic recipe typically includes the following ingredients:

Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most common choice for this recipe. Chicken thighs can also be used, but boneless is recommended.
Ranch seasoning: A packet of ranch dressing mix adds the signature ranch flavor.
Cream cheese: This adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
Bacon: Cooked bacon provides a smoky and savory element.
Cheddar cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese is often added for extra cheesiness.

Variations on this recipe may include:

Pepperoncini peppers: These add a kick of spice and vinegar to balance the richness of the dish.
Rotel diced tomatoes with chiles: For those who like a bit more heat, a can of Rotel tomatoes can be added.
Green onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color as a garnish.
Butter: Adding butter to the crockpot helps to create a richer sauce.
Sour cream: Some recipes incorporate sour cream for added tanginess and creaminess.
Colby Jack cheese: This can be used in place of or in addition to cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.

Simple Recipe

Here's a basic version of the Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Crockpot recipe:

Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers

Ingredients:

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 packet ranch dressing mix
8 oz cream cheese, cut into cubes
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Optional: green onions, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
Cut up butter and cream cheese into chunks and place on chicken.
Sprinkle the chicken breasts with ranch seasoning.
Top with slices of cream cheese.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Shred chicken with two forks.
Stir in crumbled bacon and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.
Cover and let the cheese melt.
Garnish with remaining cheddar cheese and green onions before serving.

Detailed Step-by-Step Instructions

For a more detailed approach, consider the following steps:

Prepare the ingredients: Trim the fat off the boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Finely chop the green onions and set aside. Cook the bacon until crispy and crumble it.
Layer the ingredients: Spray the crock of your slow cooker with a nonstick cooking spray. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Season with salt and black pepper, if desired. Cut the cream cheese into cubes and spread evenly over the chicken. Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix and most of the green onions, saving some for garnish. Lastly, sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese on top.
Slow cook: Cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours, or cook chicken in crockpot on high for 3-4 hours or low 5-7 hours. During last half of cooking time check chicken for moisture. It may need 2-4 Tbl. of water added to it.
Shred and combine: Once the chicken is fork-tender, take two large forks and shred the chicken in the crockpot. Mix everything together well with the cream cheese mixture and cover and cook for 10 more minutes.
Add final touches: Lastly, sprinkle the remaining cheese, green onions, and then the crumbled bacon on top. Cover for a minute or two to let the cheese melt, then serve.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Results

Adjust the spice level: If you like spice, use pepperoncini peppers. If you don’t like spice, you can get rid of the peppers and the recipe will still work just fine.
Don't peek: Keep the lid on the crock pot during the cooking time. Every time you lift the lid, a lot of heat escapes which prolongs the time it takes to cook.
Use a programmable slow cooker: A programmable slow cooker prevents food from over cooking.
Check for doneness: When in doubt if your chicken is done cooking in the crock pot, use a meat thermometer.
Start with thawed chicken: Always start with thawed chicken.
Ensure moisture: When using really lean meat like chicken breasts, there won’t be enough natural juices released to properly cook it.
Shredding the chicken: A simple way to shred chicken is to use two forks. Hold one fork in each hand, and use them to pull the meat apart. The easiest way to shred slow cooker chicken is by using 2 forks. Press the forks into the chicken with the back of the forks pressed against each other.
Cheese selection: The great thing about this recipe is that you can use your favorite type of cheese. I always use freshly grated cheddar when I can. Not only does it melt smoother, pre-shredded has additives that keep it from sticking together.

Serving Suggestions

This Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

As a main dish: Serve it as is for a simple and satisfying meal.
Over cauliflower rice: For a low-carb option, serve the chicken over cauliflower rice.
In a low-carb wrap: Use low-carb tortillas to make wraps.
On keto buns: Serve it on keto buns for a sandwich.
Mixed with veggie noodles: Combine the chicken with zucchini or other veggie noodles.
As a dip: Serve it as a warm dip with vegetables or low-carb crackers.
On salads: I like to put this chicken on top of salads.
In tacos, sandwiches, wraps, sliders, and burritos

Storage and Reheating

Leftover keto slow cooker zesty ranch chicken will last in the fridge for up to 5 days, so you can eat it all week long. You can definitely freeze this keto chicken recipe. Store it in an airtight container in the freezer, and it will last for up to 4 months. Reheat in the microwave in 30-second increments until hot.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

This recipe is not only delicious but also offers several health benefits, especially for those following a ketogenic diet:

Low in carbohydrates: This dish is designed to be low in carbs, making it suitable for keto diets.
High in protein: With chicken and bacon as primary ingredients, this recipe is a good source of protein.
Rich in healthy fats: The cream cheese and bacon contribute to the fat content, which is essential for keto diets.

Read also: Magnesium Supplements for Keto

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