This Slow Cooker Crack Chicken is a creamy, cheesy delight that brings all the flavors together effortlessly. Made with tender chicken, ranch dressing, and cream cheese, it’s simply irresistible!
You’ll love how it fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma. I like to serve it on buns or over rice, and trust me, leftovers (if there are any!) make for a fantastic snack or lunch.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the main protein in this dish. You can substitute with thighs for a juicier option. Alternatively, shredded rotisserie chicken can save time; just reduce the cooking time!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds a zesty flavor. If you want to make your own, mix garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and some salt. It’s fun to customize flavors to your liking!
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese helps create a creamy texture. For a lighter option, you could use Greek yogurt, but the flavor will change a bit. Softened Neufchâtel cheese is another great alternative.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar gives it a cheesy finish. If you prefer something milder, Monterey Jack or even pepper jack can add a fun kick. Vegan cheese works too!
Bacon: Crumbled cooked bacon adds crunchiness. Turkey bacon or a plant-based bacon can be great substitutions if you’re looking for something lighter or vegetarian.
How Do I Shred Chicken Effectively After Cooking?
Shredding chicken in the slow cooker is easy! Follow these simple steps to ensure it’s perfectly shredded.
- Once the cooking time is up, take two forks and hold one fork steady. Use the other to pull the chicken apart.
- Work in small sections to make it easier and ensure even shredding.
- Be careful of the hot liquid; it’s best to wear oven mitts if needed!
- Once shredded, stir the contents in the slow cooker to mix the chicken with the cheese and seasoning thoroughly.
How to Make Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
For Topping:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: Cooked rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then requires either 6 to 8 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high in the slow cooker. Once it’s done, you’ll just need a few more minutes to combine everything. Get ready for a meal that’s super easy and oh-so-delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in your slow cooker. Evenly sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the top of the chicken, making sure each piece gets some flavor.
2. Add Cream Cheese and Broth:
Next, add the softened cream cheese and pour in the chicken broth. Don’t worry about stirring anything just yet; everything will come together while it cooks. Cover the slow cooker with the lid.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Set your slow cooker to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for about 4 to 5 hours. The chicken is done when it’s fully cooked and shreds easily with a fork. It’ll smell amazing in your kitchen!
4. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred it right inside the slow cooker. This will allow the chicken to soak up all that delicious cream cheese and ranch seasoning. Give it a good stir to combine everything well.
5. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Now it’s time to add a rich touch to your dish! Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and mixes with the chicken. Then, fold in the crumbled bacon—yum!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
For a filling meal, serve the crack chicken over cooked rice, if desired. Garnish with the chopped green onions on top for a fresh crunch. Now, enjoy your delicious slow cooker meal!
## Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
### Ingredients
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: Cooked rice, for serving
### Instructions
1. Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.
2. Add the cream cheese and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Do not stir; the ingredients will meld as they cook.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and shreds easily.
4. Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks right in the slow cooker. Stir the mixture to combine the cream cheese and ranch seasoning with the chicken.
5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined, followed by the crumbled bacon.
6. Serve the crack chicken over cooked rice, if desired. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your delicious slow cooker meal!
### FAQ
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just increase the cooking time by 1 to 2 hours when cooking on low, or an additional hour on high. Make sure to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before shredding.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or a soft tofu blended until smooth. For a lighter option, plain Greek yogurt can also work, but add it towards the end to prevent curdling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or warm on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy if needed!
What Can I Serve with Crack Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked rice, but you can also serve it in wraps, on top of baked potatoes, or over a bed of greens for a lighter meal. The possibilities are endless!
