This creamy crockpot crack chicken is a tasty comfort dish made with tender chicken cooked in a rich cream cheese sauce. It’s perfect for easy meals and family gatherings!
Who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself? I love serving it on buns or over rice for a delicious dinner that everyone enjoys. It’s a real crowd-pleaser! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this recipe simple. You can also use thighs for a richer flavor or even leftover rotisserie chicken for extra convenience.
Cream Cheese: This ingredient gives the dish its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, low-fat cream cheese works well, or you could use Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Ranch Dressing Mix: This powder is key for flavor. If you prefer, you can make your own mix using herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. It may take a few extra minutes, but it’s worth it!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar offers a nice sharpness. Feel free to swap it with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for some heat. Also, using a pre-shredded mix can save time.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Shredded?
Getting that perfect shredded chicken is crucial for a creamy texture. After cooking, use two forks to grab and pull the chicken apart gently.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking. This helps keep it juicy.
- Shred in the crockpot itself to mix in the creamy sauce easily.
- Don’t worry if it looks messy; that adds to the hearty feel of the dish!
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked bacon, chopped
- ½ cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 8 hamburger buns
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus cooking time in the crockpot which is 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high. Perfect for setting it and forgetting it while you go about your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper for a little bit of flavor.
2. Add Cream Cheese:
Next, take the cream cheese and spread it evenly over the chicken breasts. This will melt down and create a creamy base for your dish as it cooks!
3. Sprinkle on Ranch Dressing:
Now, sprinkle the ranch dressing mix on top of the cream cheese. Don’t be shy! This is what gives your chicken that delicious flavor.
4. Cook It Up:
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and can easily be shredded with a fork.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred it right inside the crockpot. Stir it well to combine with the cream cheese and ranch mixture until everything is creamy and mixed together.
6. Mix in Bacon and Cheese:
Stir in the chopped bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix them well until the cheese is melted and everything is nicely coated.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve the creamy chicken mixture on hamburger buns. Top with extra cheddar cheese and sliced green onions for a tasty finish. Enjoy your delicious Crack Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but it’s best to avoid cooking them from frozen in the crockpot due to safety reasons. Instead, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave for a quick thaw. Pat the chicken dry before placing it in the crockpot to ensure it cooks evenly!
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute Neufchâtel cheese, which has a similar texture but less fat. For a dairy-free version, consider using a vegan cream cheese or cashew cream. Just make sure to mix well so the flavors are fully combined!
How to Store Leftovers?
Leftover crack chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to store it longer, feel free to freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it up in the microwave or on the stove until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you like some heat, try adding a diced jalapeño or a few dashes of hot sauce to the crockpot along with the ranch mix. You could also substitute pepper jack cheese for the cheddar for an extra kick!
