Get ready to experience the most addictive pasta dish that's about to revolutionize your weeknight dinners! This Overnight Crack Chicken Pasta is so incredibly delicious, it's guaranteed to have your family begging for seconds - and maybe even thirds. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this slow cooker sensation combines tender, ranch-seasoned chicken, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta into one mouthwatering meal that practically cooks itself. Warning: This recipe is so good, it might just become your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 12 ounces pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker, ensuring they are spread out evenly.
- Sprinkle the entire packet of ranch seasoning directly over the chicken breasts, covering them completely.
- Cut the cream cheese into cubes and distribute them around and on top of the chicken breasts.
- Pour the chicken broth carefully around the chicken to help create moisture and prevent sticking.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
- Once chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred the meat completely, mixing it with the ranch-infused liquid and cream cheese.
- Add the uncooked pasta directly into the slow cooker, stirring to combine with the chicken mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta and chicken.
- Cover and continue cooking for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Once done, let the dish rest for 5-10 minutes to allow sauce to thicken.
- Garnish with freshly chopped green onions before serving hot.
Tips
- Use fresh chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor. Frozen chicken can work but may release more liquid.
- Don't skip the ranch seasoning - it's the secret ingredient that gives this dish its addictive "crack" quality!
- Cut cream cheese into smaller cubes to help it melt more evenly throughout the dish.
- Stir pasta occasionally during the last 30-45 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- For extra richness, you can substitute half the chicken broth with heavy cream.
- If the pasta seems too dry, add a little more chicken broth during cooking.
- Let the dish rest after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken and flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with fresh green onions just before serving to add a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 45g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 150mg
