Prep the slow cooker: Lightly grease the crock with cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Layer the base: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom.
Sprinkle with ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, a pinch of salt, and pepper.
Add liquids and cream cheese: Pour in the chicken broth. Cut the cream cheese into chunks and scatter over the chicken.
Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on Low for 4–5 hours, or on High for 2.5–3 hours, until the chicken is very tender and shreds easily.
Shred the chicken: Transfer the chicken to a plate and shred with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Make it creamy and cheesy: Stir in the heavy cream (if using), cheddar cheese, and most of the crumbled bacon.
Mix until smooth and melty. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
Finish and serve: Let it warm through for 5–10 minutes. Top with remaining bacon and green onions.
Serve hot.