Crockpot Crack Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken with creamy ranch flavors and crispy bacon. This dish not only delivers on taste but also offers the convenience of being prepared in a slow cooker, making it perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. With its mouthwatering aroma, rich texture, and cheesy goodness, Crockpot Crack Chicken is sure to become a staple in your home.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes to 8 hours 10 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 520
- Protein: 39g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fat: 39g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 890mg
Why Make This Crockpot Crack Chicken
Crockpot Crack Chicken is a delightful blend of flavors that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Its creamy, cheesy texture is comforting, making it a perfect choice for chilly evenings or when you just want something satisfying. It is also a one-pot meal that eliminates the need for multiple dishes and cuts down on cleanup time. Plus, it’s highly customizable—add your favorite toppings or sides to make it your own!
How to Make Crockpot Crack Chicken
## Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Chives or green onions for garnish
## Directions:
-
Step 1: Preparation
Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the crockpot. This will be the base of your dish, so make sure they are evenly laid out.
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Step 2: Mixing
Next, sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix generously over the chicken. This adds a burst of flavor that will permeate the chicken as it cooks. Then, add the cream cheese on top of the seasoned chicken. The cream cheese will melt down and create a luscious sauce.
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Step 3: Cooking
Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, depending on your schedule. The chicken should be thoroughly cooked and tender enough to shred easily.
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Step 4: Finishing
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked, crumbled bacon until melted and combined. Give it a final mix for a creamy, cheesy finish before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
How to Serve Crockpot Crack Chicken
Crockpot Crack Chicken can be served in many delightful ways. Spread it on buns for scrumptious sandwiches, or serve it over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for balance. You can even scoop it onto crispy nachos or into lettuce wraps for a lighter option!
How to Store Crockpot Crack Chicken
Store any leftover Crockpot Crack Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Crack Chicken
- For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken overnight in the ranch seasoning mix.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened at room temperature to blend more easily into the mixture.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a little spice!
- Adjust the ranch seasoning to taste if you prefer a milder or more intense flavor.
Delicious Variations
- Buffalo Chicken: Add buffalo sauce to the ranch seasoning for a spicy kick.
- BBQ Chicken: Swap out ranch for barbecue seasoning and a bit of BBQ sauce for a southern twist.
- Cheesy Ranch: Mix in additional cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a melty experience.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken with cauliflower or chickpeas for a meat-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes! You can cook frozen chicken breasts directly in the crockpot; just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours. -
What can I serve with Crack Chicken?
It pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, salad, or even in a wrap or sandwich with your favorite toppings. -
Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight before cooking in the morning. -
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
You can create a ranch-like flavor profile using a mix of dried herbs such as dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. -
Can I scale this recipe?
Yes! You can easily double or halve the ingredients according to your needs. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary.
Conclusion
Crockpot Crack Chicken is not only a simple recipe but also a crowd-pleaser that is sure to satisfy every palate. With its creamy cheese and flavorful seasoning, it’s a dish that you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your crockpot, gather the ingredients, and enjoy this delicious, comforting meal that your family will adore!
Print
Crockpot Crack Chicken
- Total Time: 390 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
Crockpot Crack Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken with creamy ranch flavors and crispy bacon, perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Chives or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the crockpot.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix generously over the chicken. Add the cream cheese on top.
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Shred the chicken in the crockpot, then stir in the cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon until melted and combined. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions before serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the ranch seasoning mix. Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easy blending.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 100mg