Crock Pot Crack Chicken is a creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious dish made with shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon. This slow-cooker meal is incredibly easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. Serve it on sandwiches, over rice, or as a dip with crackers for a versatile and satisfying dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless slow-cooker meal – Just dump the ingredients and let the crock pot do the work.
- Rich, creamy, and flavorful – A comforting combination of chicken, cheese, bacon, and ranch.
- Great for meal prep – Makes a large batch that stores and reheats well.
- Versatile serving options – Enjoy it as a sandwich, dip, or over pasta or rice.
- Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for family meals, parties, or potlucks.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Cream cheese
- Ranch seasoning mix
- Cheddar cheese
- Bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture)
Directions
- Place the chicken in the crock pot and sprinkle the ranch seasoning evenly over it.
- Add the cream cheese by placing it on top of the chicken in chunks.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Shred the chicken using two forks directly in the crock pot.
- Stir in the cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
- Add the crumbled bacon and stir to combine.
- Garnish with green onions if desired and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
- Total time: Up to 8 hours
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
- Low-Carb/Keto Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or lettuce wraps.
- Extra Creamy: Stir in a little heavy cream or extra cheese for a richer texture.
- Buffalo Crack Chicken: Add ½ cup of buffalo sauce for a spicy twist.
- BBQ Style: Swap ranch seasoning for BBQ seasoning and drizzle with barbecue sauce.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
What makes this “crack” chicken?
The combination of ranch seasoning, bacon, and creamy cheese makes it incredibly addictive—hence the name!
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but increase the cooking time slightly and ensure it reaches 165°F internally.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes, then do a natural release.
What should I serve this with?
It’s great on buns, wraps, over rice, pasta, baked potatoes, or even as a dip with crackers.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will make it even juicier and more flavorful.
How do I make it less salty?
Use low-sodium ranch seasoning and adjust the cheese and bacon to taste.
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Try adding spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra texture.
Is this dish keto-friendly?
Yes! It’s low in carbs when served without bread or rice.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, just make sure your crock pot is big enough to hold everything.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar is classic, but you can also use mozzarella, Colby Jack, or pepper jack for variety.
Conclusion
Crock Pot Crack Chicken is the ultimate creamy, cheesy, and savory meal that’s incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish, a sandwich filling, or a dip for a party, this recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Try different variations to suit your taste, and enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort!
PrintCrock Pot Crack Chicken
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) / 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 6 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crock Pot Crack Chicken is an easy, creamy, and cheesy shredded chicken dish made with ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, and cream cheese. It’s packed with flavor and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or serving over rice or pasta. A true family favorite!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture)
Instructions
- Prepare the Crock Pot: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker and sprinkle with the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Add cream cheese: Scatter the cream cheese cubes over the chicken.
- Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the chicken: Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the Crock Pot. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Add cheese & bacon: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Let it melt for a few minutes.
- Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions (if using) and serve warm.
Notes
- Want it creamier? Add ½ cup sour cream or a splash of heavy cream.
- Make it spicier! Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Store leftovers: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
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