Slow Cooker Crack Chicken

Crack Chicken has earned its catchy name for a reason—it’s utterly addictive!

This creamy, cheesy, and savory dish is a perfect blend of tender shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon.

Cooking it in the slow cooker takes all the effort out of the equation, leaving you with a flavorful, comforting meal that’s as easy as it is delicious.

Whether served as a dip, over rice, in sandwiches, or on a bed of pasta, Slow Cooker Crack Chicken is a versatile recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Effortless Preparation: With the slow cooker doing all the hard work, you can focus on other tasks while the magic happens.
2. Perfect for Meal Prep: This dish stores well, making it ideal for busy weekdays or batch cooking.
3. Crowd-Pleaser: Its creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a hit at potlucks, parties, or family dinners.
4. Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or adjust the ingredients to suit your taste.
5. Kid-Friendly: The savory flavors and creamy texture are a win with little ones.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces cream cheese (cut into cubes)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder (optional)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (for extra moisture)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
• Fresh chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

Step-by-Step Process

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
   Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker to prevent sticking.
2. Add the Ingredients
   Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken. Add the cream cheese cubes on top and pour in the chicken broth to keep everything moist.
3. Cook Low and Slow
   Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shreddable.
4. Shred the Chicken
   Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it directly in the slow cooker. Stir everything to combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and ranch-flavored juices.
5. Add the Cheese and Bacon
   Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken and stir until it melts and blends into the mixture. Add the crumbled bacon for a smoky, crispy texture.
6. Garnish and Serve
   Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color. Serve warm as a main dish or side, depending on your preference.

Variations

1. Spicy Crack Chicken
   Add some heat by mixing in diced jalapeños, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce.
2. Vegetable Boost
   Stir in steamed broccoli, diced bell peppers, or spinach during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
3. Dairy-Free Option
   Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheddar substitutes to make this dish suitable for lactose-intolerant or dairy-free diets.
4. Keto-Friendly Twist
   Keep it low-carb by serving this over cauliflower rice, zoodles, or in lettuce wraps.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs work just as well and tend to be more forgiving in the slow cooker, staying juicy even if slightly overcooked.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely. Store cooked Crack Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat.

What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, baked potatoes, or even crusty bread for dipping. For a lighter option, serve it over a fresh salad or steamed vegetables.

Can I freeze Slow Cooker Crack Chicken?
Yes, it freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Serve

• Over Rice: Spoon the creamy chicken mixture over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a hearty, comforting meal.
• In Sandwiches: Use Crack Chicken as a filling for sandwiches, sliders, or wraps for a quick and satisfying lunch.
• As a Dip: Serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or toasted baguette slices as a party appetizer.
• With Vegetables: Pair it with steamed broccoli, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Slow Cooker Crack Chicken

Crack Chicken has earned its catchy name for a reason—it’s utterly addictive! This creamy, cheesy, and savory dish is a perfect blend of tender shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon.

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Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 8 ounces cream cheese cubed
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix about 1 ounce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder optional
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder optional
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 slices cooked bacon crumbled
• Fresh parsley or green onions chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

• Lightly grease the slow cooker.
• Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and sprinkle with ranch seasoning. Add garlic and onion powder if desired.
• Scatter cream cheese cubes over the chicken and pour in chicken broth.
• Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
• Shred the chicken using two forks and mix it with the juices and cream cheese.
• Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
• Add crumbled bacon and mix well.
• Garnish with parsley or green onions before serving.

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