This creamy crockpot crack chicken is a real winner! Made with tender chicken, ranch seasoning, and cream cheese, it’s super easy to prepare and so comforting.
You can serve it on buns, over rice, or just eat it straight from the pot (I’ve done it, and no shame!). It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for any day.
I love how I can just throw everything in the crockpot and let it do its magic. It’s great for family dinners or game days—everyone will want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the star here for a tender, juicy result. You could swap them for thighs, which are a bit richer, or use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds amazing flavor! If you’re out, mix equal parts of dill, garlic powder, and onion powder, or try a homemade ranch blend of your choice.
Cream Cheese: This gives the dish its creaminess. Neufchâtel cheese works as a lighter option. For dairy-free, consider a plant-based cream cheese alternative!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: I recommend sharp cheddar for a bold flavor. You can substitute with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for some spice.
Bacon: Crumbled bacon adds a delicious crunch! For a healthier twist, try turkey bacon or omit it altogether if you prefer a vegetarian dish.
Green Onions: They brighten up the dish. If you’re out, chopped fresh parsley or chives can be a nice substitute.
How Can I Make Sure the Chicken Stays Moist?
The key to juicy chicken in a crockpot is not just cooking it long enough but also maintaining moisture. Here’s how to ensure your chicken stays moist:
- Start with the right amount of seasoning. Don’t skip the salt and pepper; they enhance flavor and help retain moisture.
- Cut the cream cheese into chunks instead of mixing it in whole. It melts better and evenly distributes its creamy texture.
- Cover the crockpot while cooking! This traps steam and helps tenderize the chicken.
- Avoid opening the lid to check too often, as this releases heat and moisture.
With these simple strategies, you’re on your way to making a deliciously creamy and satisfying crockpot dish! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seed hamburger buns for serving
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 10 minutes for prep and then cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. Perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a warm, delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts right at the bottom of your crockpot. Don’t forget to season them with a little salt and pepper for some extra flavor! Then, sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken—this is where the magic begins!
2. Add the Cream Cheese:
Take the cream cheese and cut it into smaller cubes. Place these cubes right on top of the seasoned chicken in the crockpot. This will melt down during cooking and make everything super creamy and delicious!
3. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Now, you can choose to cook on low for about 6-7 hours or on high for around 3-4 hours. The chicken is done when it’s cooked through and can be shredded easily with a fork.
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it right in the crockpot. As you shred, mix it together with the melted cream cheese and ranch seasoning. It should come together beautifully!
5. Mix In the Cheddar and Bacon:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Give it a good mix to let the cheese melt into the warm, creamy chicken mixture. This is where it gets extra tasty!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Spoon the creamy chicken mixture onto sesame seed hamburger buns. For a fresh touch, sprinkle with chopped green onions. Dig in and enjoy your delicious creamy crockpot crack chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to add an extra hour or so to the cooking time. Just ensure they are fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before serving.
What if I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning Mix?
No worries! You can make a simple homemade version by mixing together equal parts of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will give you a flavorful substitute for ranch seasoning!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and seasoning mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for a day before cooking. Just pop everything into the crockpot when you’re ready to cook! If you’re short on time, you may also cook it a day ahead, keep it in the fridge, and reheat before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover crack chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You may want to add a little splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess while reheating!
