Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches
If you’re looking for a simple and delicious meal, you’ve found it with this slow cooker chicken recipe. The flavorful combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch will become a family favorite in no time, boasting rich taste and effortless preparation. Dive into the savory experience where each bite brings comfort and satisfaction.
As a child, weekends meant one thing: family gatherings filled with laughter and hearty meals carefully prepared by Grandma. Her love for chicken dishes was legendary in our household, and every bite echoed with warmth and comfort. This reminded me of my Grandma’s knack for creating culinary magic with minimal ingredients. Her kitchen always smelled divine as she let her slow cooker work its magic, filling our hearts and bellies alike.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy days since it utilizes a slow cooker, allowing you to set it and forget it. The combination of savory chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch offers a delightful blend of flavors, making it a unique take on a classic sandwich. It’s versatile, family-friendly, and can be served at gatherings or as a casual lunch.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. For best results, use high-quality chicken breast, as it provides tenderness while absorbing the flavors beautifully. Bacon adds a rich, smoky taste but can be substituted with turkey bacon for a lighter option. The ranch dressing is crucial, so feel free to use a homemade version if you prefer. Lastly, buns with a soft interior and firm crust are ideal for this sandwich.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your slow cooker. Make sure they lay flat and are evenly distributed.
Step 2
Sprinkle a packet of ranch seasoning evenly over the chicken. You can also add a tablespoon of garlic powder for extra flavor.
Step 3
Layer cooked and crumbled bacon over the chicken, ensuring the bacon is spread out and able to infuse its flavor into the chicken.
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Step 4
Pour a cup of chicken broth over the seasoned chicken and bacon. This will keep everything moist and succulent during cooking.
Step 5
Set your slow cooker on low and cook for 6-7 hours. Once done, shred the chicken with two forks, mix everything thoroughly, and serve on buns.
Storage Options
Once cooked, place any leftovers in an airtight container. The chicken mixture can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For extended storage, freeze in portions suitable for your needs, and when ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Variations & Substitutions
To adapt this dish for different dietary needs, consider using low-sodium broth and dressing for a healthier version. For a spicy kick, add chopped jalapeños or sriracha before cooking. You can also replace chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a faster preparation time.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is perfect for a casual lunch or dinner. Serve it with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the chicken. For a picnic lunch, pack the chicken mixture and buns separately, allowing guests to assemble their sandwiches on-site. This recipe is also great for game day snacks served as sliders!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought ranch dressing instead of a seasoning packet?
While a packet of ranch seasoning gives a concentrated flavor, you can use two tablespoons of liquid ranch dressing. However, be cautious with additional salt, as the dressing itself is salty.
Is it possible to use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe works wonderfully with turkey or even pork. Ensure that you adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness and type of meat used to ensure thorough cooking.
Can this recipe be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave before assembling the sandwiches, adding more ranch dressing to taste if necessary.
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Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwiches
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken breasts boneless and skinless
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
- 6 pieces sandwich buns for serving
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning over the chicken and pour the chicken broth over top.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until chicken is fully cooked.
- Shred the chicken with two forks and mix it with the juices in the slow cooker.
- Serve the shredded chicken on sandwich buns and top with crumbled bacon.
Notes
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