This Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken is just what you need for a cozy meal! Made with chicken, cream cheese, and flavorful spices, it’s creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-good.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for a lean and tender dish. If you’re looking for a more flavorful option, try using thighs instead. They have more fat and can add extra juiciness.
Ranch Seasoning: This adds a distinct flavor to the dish. If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can mix dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder to create a similar taste. Homemade options are also fun!
Cream Cheese: It gives the dish a rich, creamy texture. For a lighter version, use Neufchâtel cheese or Greek yogurt. If you want to make it dairy-free, you could use coconut cream.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar enhances the flavor beautifully. You can substitute with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a kick. Vegan cheese works well too if you’re avoiding dairy.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a salty crunch. If you’d prefer a vegetarian option, it can be omitted altogether or replaced with crispy fried onions for a different texture.
How Do I Ensure the Chicken Stays Tender?
Getting tender chicken from a crockpot is all about the cooking time and setting. Low and slow is the best method here!
- Keep the lid on while cooking to maintain moisture—this is essential for tender chicken.
- Set your crockpot on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so check at the minimum time.
- When shredding, use two forks to pull the chicken apart gently. This keeps the strands intact and helps them soak up all the creamy goodness.
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Hamburger buns (for serving)
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
For Garnish:
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time and will cook in the crockpot for 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Just set it and forget it, then enjoy the delightful aroma as it cooks!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. This is the base of your delicious crack chicken!
2. Add the Ranch Seasoning:
Evenly sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the chicken breasts. Make sure to cover them well with the seasoning so every bite is packed with flavor.
3. Add the Cream Cheese:
Cut the cream cheese into chunks and scatter it on top of the chicken and ranch seasoning in the crockpot. This will melt beautifully and create a rich, creamy texture.
4. Let it Cook:
Cover the crockpot with its lid. You can choose to cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Your goal is to ensure the chicken is cooked through and tender.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done cooking, use two forks to shred it right in the crockpot. Stir the shredded chicken with the cream cheese and ranch seasoning until it’s creamy and well mixed. It’s going to smell amazing!
6. Mix in Cheddar and Bacon:
Now, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Mix it all together until the cheese is melted and everything is nice and hot.
7. Season to Taste:
Before serving, add salt and pepper according to your taste. This way, you can adjust the flavor just how you like it!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, scoop the creamy crack chicken onto hamburger buns. Top with chopped green onions for a fresh touch, and dig in! Enjoy this comforting meal any day of the week!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours on low and check for doneness. Always ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Can I Substitute the Cream Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or low-fat cream cheese. Keep in mind that the texture may vary slightly, so you might need to adjust the seasoning for flavor.
How to Store Leftovers
Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to restore creaminess.
What Can I Serve Instead of Hamburger Buns?
If you want a low-carb option, serve the crack chicken on lettuce wraps, in a tortilla, or over rice. For a heartier side, consider pairing it with mashed potatoes or a salad!
