This article explores a simple and delicious Keto Ranch Chicken Crock Pot recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. It is a low-carb, high-protein dish packed with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Ranch Chicken Recipe
This Crock Pot Ranch Chicken recipe is incredibly easy to make and loaded with amazing flavors. Tender, juicy chicken combined with a creamy ranch sauce, crispy bacon, and melted cheese creates an irresistible dish that will have you hooked from the first bite. It requires minimal effort and delivers a satisfying meal with only one net carb per serving, along with over 50 grams of protein and approximately 18 grams of fat, making it an ideal choice for those following a ketogenic diet.
What’s in Crack Chicken
This recipe, sometimes referred to as "Crack Chicken" due to its addictive nature, includes:
- Boneless chicken breasts
- Ranch seasoning
- Cream cheese
- Cheddar cheese
- Bacon
- Green onions (optional)
How to Make Keto Ranch Chicken in the Slow Cooker
This recipe is incredibly simple, making it perfect for busy individuals:
- Trim the fat off the boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- Spray the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker. You can use fresh or frozen chicken breasts.
- Sprinkle the chicken breasts with ranch seasoning.
- Cut the cream cheese into cubes and spread evenly over the chicken. You can also cut up butter into chunks and place on chicken.
- Add the chicken breast and ranch dressing in a gallon ziploc bag, seal and place in the freezer. When ready to use, thaw in fridge overnight, empty into the slow cooker with a block of cream cheese.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. During last half of cooking time check chicken for moisture. It may need 2-4 Tbl. of water added to it.
- Fry the bacon in a large skillet until crispy. Drain off all the fat and save it for another recipe.
- Once the chicken is fork tender, take two large forks and shred the chicken in the crockpot. Mix everything together and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese on top, cover for a minute or two to let the cheese melt and then serve.Top with the shredded cheddar cheese and cover until the cheese has melted.
Serving Suggestions
This versatile dish can be served in a variety of ways:
Read also: Easy Low-Carb Cheese Crackers
- As a main dish
- Over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option
- On keto buns or low-carb tortillas for a sandwich or wrap
- As a dip with vegetables or low-carb crackers*You an add this casserole as is, over cauliflower rice, on a low carb bun, in a low carb tortilla or mix with veggie noodles.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese: Freshly grated cheddar cheese melts smoother and doesn't contain additives found in pre-shredded cheese. You can also use your favorite type of cheese.
- Chicken: While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, boneless chicken thighs can also be used. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the type of chicken used.
- Spice: For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the recipe.
- Flavor Enhancement: Searing the chicken in the slow cooker insert on the stovetop before slow cooking can add more flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer for a quick keto lunch.
The Science Behind Tender Chicken
The slow cooker's braising method, which involves cooking with liquid in a covered pot, is key to achieving tender chicken. This method allows the collagen in the meat to break down, resulting in a wonderful texture and flavor. Using a tight-fitting lid is important to maintain a consistent temperature and prevent heat from escaping, ensuring the chicken cooks properly.
Slow Cookers and Safety
A slow cooker is a very common kitchen appliance used to cook raw chicken and beef. It's essential to start with thawed chicken to ensure even cooking. When in doubt about whether the chicken is done, use a meat thermometer. Another way to ensure it is done, is to take a fork and gently pry it into the center of the breasts or thighs. To fully cook the chicken, you'll want a tight-fitting lid that you keep closed on the crock pot for at least the first hour and a half so the temperature builds up and can begin cooking the meat.
The Programmable Slow Cooker Advantage
For those with busy schedules, a programmable slow cooker is a game-changer. It prevents food from overcooking and allows for flexible cooking times. Some models, like the Hamilton Beach 6 Quart Slow Cooker, even have inserts that can be used on the stovetop for searing.
Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
For an easy and delicious high-protein and low-carb dinner try this keto chicken bacon ranch casserole that you make in the slow cooker. You only need 6 ingredients and you can have a creamy chicken casserole with the delicious flavors of ranch, bacon and cheddar cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Keto Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole:
- Spray the crock of your slow cooker with a nonstick cooking spray.
- Add the chicken breast to the crockpot and season with salt and black pepper.
- Cut up the cream cheese into cubes and spread evenly over the chicken.
- Sprinkle the ranch dressing mix and most of the green onions. Save some of the green onions for a garnish at the end.
- Lastly sprinkle half of the cheddar cheese on top, cover and cook on high for 3-4 hours or on low for 6-8 hours.
- Once you the chicken is fork tender, take two large forks and shred the chicken in the crockpot. Mix everything together and cook for 10 more minutes.
- Lastly sprinkle the remain cheese, green onions and then the crumbled bacon on top. Cover for a minute or two to let the cheese melt and then serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving contains approximately:
Read also: Keto Calorie Counting: A Detailed Guide
- Net Carbs: 4.3g
- Protein: Over 50 grams
- Fat: Approximately 18 grams
*Nutritional data is provided as a courtesy and is accurate to the best of knowledge. You can verify it using the nutrition calculator of your choice.
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