If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both easy and incredibly delicious, look no further than Crockpot Crack Chicken! This creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish is made with tender chicken, bacon, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and cheese. It’s a crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even as a dip for your next gathering.
With minimal prep time and a slow cooker doing most of the work, Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken will soon become one of your go-to recipes!
Ingredients
For the Crack Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (use the dry mix, not the dressing)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6-8 slices)
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced (optional for garnish)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley (optional for garnish)
For the optional additions:
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for a gooey topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the bottom of your Crockpot. No need to brown the chicken beforehand—just place it in as is!
Step 2: Add the Cream Cheese and Seasoning
On top of the chicken, add the cream cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Do not mix—just place everything on top of the chicken.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken
Cover the Crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender when done, easily shreddable with a fork.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the Crockpot. Stir the chicken to mix it well with the cream cheese and ranch mixture, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 5: Add the Bacon and Cheese
Once the chicken is shredded, add the crumbled cooked bacon and shredded cheddar cheese to the Crockpot. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and fully incorporated.
Step 6: Optional Creaminess
For extra creaminess, stir in the sour cream at this point. If you want a gooey, cheesy top, sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top and let it melt in the Crockpot for 10-15 minutes.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the Crack Chicken over rice, in a bun as a sandwich, or with your favorite veggies or crackers. Garnish with sliced green onions and chopped parsley for added freshness and flavor.
Cooking Notes & Tips
- Chicken Variations: You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more juicy, flavorful version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a little longer to cook.
- Bacon: For the crispiest bacon, cook the bacon in a skillet before adding it to the Crockpot. You can also use pre-cooked bacon crumbles for convenience, though freshly cooked bacon adds more flavor.
- Cream Cheese: If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use Neufchatel cheese instead of cream cheese. It’s a lower-fat option but still provides a creamy texture.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare this dish a day ahead by placing everything in the Crockpot the night before and cooking it in the morning for a ready-to-serve meal.
- Slow Cooker Size: This recipe works best in a 6-quart Crockpot. If you’re using a smaller or larger Crockpot, you may need to adjust the amount of ingredients accordingly.
Variations
1. Spicy Crack Chicken
For a little heat, add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the recipe. You can also mix in a bit of buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy twist.
2. Crack Chicken Dip
Transform this into a dip for parties by reducing the amount of chicken and adding more cream cheese, sour cream, or ranch dressing. Serve with tortilla chips or crackers for a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
3. Low-Carb Crack Chicken
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, skip the rice or buns and serve the Crack Chicken over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or just enjoy it as is with a side of vegetables. The creamy texture and savory flavors make this dish naturally keto-friendly.
4. Vegetarian Crack “Chicken”
For a vegetarian or plant-based version, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or shredded jackfruit. Add extra veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for additional flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prepping! You can assemble everything in the Crockpot the night before, store it in the fridge, and cook it the next day. Alternatively, you can cook it ahead of time and reheat it.
2. Can I use frozen chicken?
It’s best to use thawed chicken for this recipe, as frozen chicken may not cook evenly in the Crockpot. If using frozen chicken, you may need to extend the cooking time.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also freeze the Crack Chicken for up to 3 months.
4. How spicy is Crack Chicken?
This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can easily add spice by including jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes. Adjust the heat level to your liking!
Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken is an indulgent and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy nights or casual get-togethers. With its creamy texture, smoky bacon, and flavorful ranch seasoning, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. Whether you serve it over rice, in a sandwich, or with crackers, this recipe is versatile and oh-so-delicious.
Give this recipe a try, and you’ll see why it’s called “crack chicken” – it’s addictive
