This creamy crockpot crack chicken is a cozy dish that’s packed with flavor. With chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and bacon, it’s a huge hit at gatherings!
Honestly, it’s so simple—just toss everything in the crockpot and let it cook. I love serving it on soft buns for a tasty sandwich. Plus, it makes the house smell amazing! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are best for shredding in this recipe. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well and add more flavor.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This packet gives a great taste, but you can make your own with herbs like dill, garlic powder, and onion powder, especially if you want it to be healthier.
Cream Cheese: The star for creaminess! If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, try Neufchâtel cheese. Vegan cream cheese is a good substitute for a dairy-free version.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar provides richness, but feel free to switch it up! Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while mozzarella gives a milder flavor.
Bacon: I love the crunch it adds. If you’re not a bacon fan, crispy turkey bacon or even diced ham can do the trick!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding chicken well helps mix flavors beautifully. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cook the chicken thoroughly on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours to ensure it’s tender.
- Use two forks to pull the chicken apart while it’s still hot in the crockpot. This makes the process smoother.
- If you find the chicken is tough, it may need a bit more cooking time.
After shredding, mix it well with the cheese for that creamy goodness to coat every bite!
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 packet cream cheese (8 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- 4 hamburger buns (sesame seed or your choice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Additional toppings (e.g., pickles or jalapeños)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 6 to 8 hours in the crockpot on low (or 4 to 5 hours on high). Perfect for a busy day, just set it and forget it until you’re ready to enjoy a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Make sure they’re laid out evenly so they cook properly.
2. Add the Seasoning:
Next, sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix all over the chicken. Don’t be shy—this is where a lot of the flavor comes from!
3. Add the Cream Cheese:
Cut the cream cheese into small cubes and drop them on top of the chicken. As it cooks, the cream cheese will melt and blend into the mixture.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crockpot with a lid and set it to cook. If you have time, let it go on low for 6-8 hours for tender, juicy chicken. If you’re short on time, high for 4-5 hours works too.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once it’s done cooking, use two forks to shred the chicken right inside the crockpot. It should fall apart easily. Mix it all around a bit to combine everything.
6. Add the Cheddar Cheese:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and mixed in nicely with the chicken. This adds delicious cheesiness to your dish!
7. Crumble and Mix in Bacon:
Add the crumbled bacon to the chicken mixture, and stir it in well. This adds a crunchy, salty bite that’s sure to please!
8. Season to Taste:
Take a moment to taste your mixture, and add salt and pepper if needed. Adjust to your liking!
9. Assemble the Sandwiches:
Now it’s time to serve! Spoon the creamy chicken mixture onto the hamburger buns. Don’t forget to top with chopped green onions and any additional toppings you enjoy, like pickles or jalapeños.
10. Enjoy!
Dig into your delicious Creamy Crack Chicken sandwiches. They’re perfect for a dinner that you can whip up with minimal effort!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to increase the cook time by about 1 to 1.5 hours on low or 30-60 minutes on high. It’s best to check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can use a mixture of dried herbs such as dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder. Start with about 1 tablespoon each of dill and parsley, plus 1 teaspoon each of garlic and onion powders for a good flavor kick!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. You can also freeze the chicken mixture for up to 2 months! Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even spinach can add some extra flavor and nutrition. Just chop them up and add them on top of the chicken before cooking. Make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re adding a lot, and check that everything is cooked through.
