This Easy Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken is a dreamy blend of chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and cheese. It’s so simple to make, you can set it and forget it!
Honestly, who can resist a dish where cheese melts into everything? I love serving it over rice or in sandwiches—perfect for a cozy dinner or a game day treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These are the base of the dish. You can use thighs if you prefer a juicier option. They will add more flavor but adjust cooking time as needed.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient gives the dish its creamy texture. If you’re looking for lighter options, consider using low-fat cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative, like cashew cream.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds a ton of flavor. If you’re out of ranch, mix dried herbs like parsley, dill, and garlic powder for a similar taste. Homemade ranch seasoning can be a fun project!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. You can swap it for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different twist.
Bacon: Instead of using regular bacon, turkey bacon can be a lighter alternative. Vegans can use coconut bacon for a tasty, plant-based option.
How Do I Shred Chicken Easily in a Crockpot?
Shredding chicken in a crockpot is simple and can be done right in the pot for minimal mess. Here’s how:
- Once the chicken is cooked and tender, take two forks and place them back to back.
- Hold one fork in each hand, then pull the chicken apart by scraping the forks in opposite directions.
- Continue until the chicken is shredded to your liking, mixing it well with the other ingredients afterwards!
This technique allows the flavors to blend beautifully, ensuring every bite is delicious!
Easy Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious savory dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time and then you can set your crockpot for a low cook time of 6-7 hours, or high for about 3-4 hours. It’s an easy meal that you can prepare in the morning and have ready for dinner without any fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Layer Your Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Spread them out evenly so they cook properly.
2. Season with Ranch:
Take your ranch seasoning mix and sprinkle it evenly over the chicken. This flavorful seasoning is what makes this dish so popular!
3. Add Creamy Goodness:
Next, add the cubed cream cheese on top of the seasoned chicken. Don’t worry about mixing yet—we’ll take care of that later!
4. Cook to Perfection:
Cover your crockpot with the lid and set it to cook. If you’re using the low setting, cook for 6-7 hours. For a quicker option, use the high setting for 3-4 hours. The chicken will be very tender and easy to shred when it’s done!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is complete, it’s time to shred the chicken. Use two forks to pull it apart right in the crockpot—it’s super easy when it’s cooked well!
6. Mix in Cheese and Bacon:
After shredding, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Mix everything together thoroughly so that the cheese melts and combines with the creamy chicken.
7. Garnish and Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Now it’s ready to be served!
8. Enjoy!
Serve your creamy crack chicken warm over rice, pasta, or in sandwich buns. Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and so comforting!
This recipe yields a rich, creamy, and cheesy chicken dish with crispy bacon topping that’s perfect for a simple yet flavorful meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken in this recipe! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time. For frozen chicken, cook on high for about 5-6 hours or low for 8-9 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Lighter?
If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can use low-fat cream cheese and turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. You can also substitute the cheddar cheese for a lower-fat cheese option.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, during the last hour of cooking. This will give the dish extra flavor and nutrients without compromising the creaminess.
