This Slow Cooker Crack Chicken is a super creamy and tasty dish made with chicken, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning. It’s a crowd-pleaser that you can whip up easily!
Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. It’s perfect for sandwiches or served over rice. I’m not saying it’s addictive, but I might have eaten it for three meals straight! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish. You can swap them for thighs if you prefer dark meat, as they have more flavor and stay juicier during cooking.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: If you’re out of ranch seasoning, a homemade mix with dried herbs (like dill, parsley, and garlic powder) can work, or use a different seasoning that your family loves.
Cream Cheese: For a lighter version, consider using Neufchâtel cheese instead. If you’re dairy-free, a plant-based cream cheese can also fit nicely into the recipe.
Cheddar Cheese: While I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, you can replace it with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a little kick. If avoiding dairy, try a vegan cheese that melts well.
Bacon: Use crumbled turkey bacon or leave it out for a vegetarian option. You can even add mushrooms for a savory touch!
How Do You Get the Chicken Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding chicken can be tricky, but with the right technique, it becomes super easy! After cooking, let the chicken rest briefly to stay juicy. Then, use two forks to pull it apart right in the slow cooker.
- Gently pull the chicken apart in the cooker.
- If it resists, it may need a few extra minutes. Just cover it back up and let it cook a little longer.
- You can also use a hand mixer on low speed if you want it super shredded and quick.
This method helps mix the chicken with those delicious flavors in the sauce as you shred, so every bite is amazing!
How to Make Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and then you’ll need to let it cook in the slow cooker for either 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. After it’s cooked, you’ll spend a few more minutes shredding the chicken and adding toppings. It’s easy and makes for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. This will be the base for your crack chicken!
2. Add the Ranch Seasoning:
Next, sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken. This will give it a delicious flavor!
3. Cream Cheese Layer:
Take your softened cream cheese and place it on top of the chicken and ranch seasoning. Don’t worry about spreading it out just yet; it will melt and mix in as it cooks!
4. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
Now, pour the chicken broth into the slow cooker. This adds moisture and helps cook the chicken to perfection.
5. Slow Cook the Chicken:
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the slow cooker. It should come apart easily. Stir it around to mix in all those tasty flavors!
7. Mix in Bacon and Cheese:
Add the crumbled cooked bacon and half of the shredded cheddar cheese to the slow cooker. Stir this all together until it’s well mixed and the cheese is appearing to melt in.
8. Melt the Remaining Cheese:
Top your chicken mixture with the rest of the cheddar cheese, cover it again, and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This will allow the cheese to melt nicely!
9. Final Touches:
Once the cheese has melted, stir in the chopped green onions. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste based on your preference!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your crack chicken hot, garnished with extra green onions. It’s great over rice or in sandwiches. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s important to ensure it cooks thoroughly. If using frozen, cook on high for about 5-6 hours instead of 3-4 hours on low. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (75°C) for safety!
Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
Absolutely! To lighten it up, you can substitute the cream cheese with a lower fat version, or use Greek yogurt instead. You can also reduce the amount of cheddar cheese or skip the bacon to cut down on calories and fat without sacrificing too much flavor!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover crack chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
What Else Can I Serve With Crack Chicken?
This creamy dish pairs wonderfully with rice, but you can also serve it in sandwiches, over baked potatoes, or even with a side of steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal. It’s super versatile!
