This Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken is a dream for busy cooks! With chicken, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning, it’s super simple and so tasty.
I love how I can just toss everything in the pot and let it work its magic. It makes the house smell amazing, and the leftovers are just as good! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is essential for the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use turkey breasts instead. Just ensure they are cooked until tender.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This mix gives a wonderful flavor. If you want to make it from scratch, combine equal parts of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. It’s a good way to avoid preservatives!
Cream Cheese: This is key for the creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider using low-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt as a substitute. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still add creaminess.
Bacon: Cooked bacon enhances the flavor. For a healthier option, you could use turkey bacon or even omit it and add crispy roasted chickpeas for crunch.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic, but you could try Pepper Jack for extra kick or a dairy-free cheese if you prefer avoiding dairy.
Green Onions: These add freshness. If you don’t have them, chopped chives or even finely diced red onions can work well for a slightly different flavor.
How Do I Make Sure the Chicken is Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding the chicken right is crucial for the texture of Crack Chicken. The best way is to do this after the chicken has cooked completely, while it’s still hot. Here’s how to do it smoothly:
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart gently. It should fall apart easily if cooked right.
- If the chicken is a bit stubborn, you can let it sit for a few minutes in the broth to loosen up further.
- Stir the shredded chicken with the cream cheese and broth mix thoroughly to get everything combined well for that creamy consistency.
Remember, if your chicken has cooked for too long and seems dry, adding a splash more chicken broth can help it soften up. Enjoy your creamy goodness!
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced green onions
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 sandwich buns (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and will need to cook for 3-4 hours on high or 6-7 hours on low in the crockpot. It’s perfect for an easy dinner that cooks while you relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. This is the base of your delicious crack chicken!
2. Add the Flavor:
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken. This will give it a wonderful flavor! Then, place the cream cheese on top of the chicken. It might seem a little odd, but trust me—it’s going to get creamy and delicious!
3. Add the Liquid:
Pour the chicken broth around the chicken and cream cheese in the crockpot. This will help everything cook evenly and keep it nice and moist. It’s always good to have a bit of liquid in there!
4. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken is ready when it’s cooked through and tender. Just let it do its thing while you enjoy your day!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is up, use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Stir everything together, mixing the chicken well with the cream cheese and broth. This will give you that creamy consistency we’re looking for!
6. Add the Good Stuff:
Now, mix in the crumbled bacon and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until it’s well combined. Let the cheesy goodness melt into your chicken!
7. Final Touches:
Give your mixture a taste and add some salt and pepper if needed—everyone’s taste is different! If you like it a bit spicier, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Scoop out the warm crack chicken onto sandwich buns for serving. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of diced green onions for a fresh crunch. Dig in and enjoy this creamy, savory treat!
Can I Use Thawed Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just ensure the chicken is completely thawed before using it in the crockpot. You can thaw it overnight in the fridge or for a quicker method, submerge the sealed chicken in cold water until thawed. Pat it dry before placing it in the crockpot to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Seasoning Mix?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can make your own by mixing equal parts of dried dill, dried parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. For a zesty kick, add a pinch of black pepper or cayenne. Alternatively, Italian seasoning works well if you prefer a different flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the crack chicken! Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, where it will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture the night before by following the first four steps. Cover the crockpot insert and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, just pop it into the slow cooker and cook as directed; just add an extra hour if it’s cold from the fridge!
