Description
This Crock Pot Salsa Ranch Chicken Pasta is a flavorful, creamy, and easy-to-make dish perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked with ranch seasoning and zesty salsa, then combined with sour cream, cheese, and pasta for a comforting meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce and Mix-ins
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies (optional)
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta and Garnish
- 1 pound pasta (penne or rotini recommended)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing the crock pot)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Grease the Crock Pot: Lightly grease the inside of the Crock Pot with 2 tablespoons of olive oil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Chicken and Seasoning: Place the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the greased Crock Pot. Evenly sprinkle 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix over the chicken. Add salt and pepper as desired for extra seasoning.
- Add Salsa and Tomatoes: Pour 1 cup of salsa over the chicken. If using, add 1 can (10 oz) of diced tomatoes with green chilies for extra flavor and mild heat.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and shred easily with two forks.
- Cook the Pasta: About 30 minutes before the chicken is done, cook 1 pound of pasta (penne or rotini recommended) according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Shred the Chicken: When the chicken is cooked, shred it directly in the Crock Pot using two forks. Stir the shredded chicken to combine with the salsa ranch mixture.
- Add Sour Cream and Cheese: Mix in 1 cup of sour cream and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Fold the cooked pasta into the Crock Pot mixture. Let the assembled dish sit for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the finished dish with fresh cilantro if desired, and serve warm for a delicious, comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute the salsa with mild or spicy varieties depending on your heat preference.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, use less salsa or drain some excess liquid before adding pasta.
- For a lower-fat option, use reduced-fat sour cream and cheese.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs well with a side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
