This Slow Cooker Crack Chicken is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s truly comforting and satisfying!
Honestly, the best part is how easy it is to throw everything in and let the slow cooker do the work. I love serving it on buns—perfect for a cozy night in! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is ideal here for easy shredding. If you prefer a different cut, chicken thighs work well too due to their tenderness.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This mix adds flavor, but you can make your own with herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. A homemade version can be fresher and healthier!
Cream Cheese: This gives the dish its creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider low-fat cream cheese or even Greek yogurt for a healthier twist.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or even pepper jack for a kick!
Bacon: Cooked bacon adds crunch and taste. For a vegetarian option, try using crispy faux bacon bits or skip it altogether for a milder dish.
Green Onions: These add a fresh flavor and nice garnish. You can use chives or even diced regular onions if you don’t have green onions on hand.
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Shredded?
Shredding chicken may seem tricky, but it’s simple once you know how! The secret is to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender. Here’s how:
- After cooking, use two forks to pull apart the chicken gently. It should come apart easily.
- Mix the shredded chicken into the cream cheese mixture while it’s still warm for better blending.
- If you find it hard to shred, let it cool a bit; warm chicken can shred more easily because the fibers loosen.
How to Make Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: cooked rice or buns for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and requires cooking time of 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in your slow cooker. So, it’s perfect for setting it and forgetting it during the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into your slow cooker. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken. Don’t mix it just yet; this will let all those delicious flavors soak in while it cooks.
2. Add the Cream Cheese:
Next, add the softened cream cheese on top of the chicken. It’s okay if it doesn’t mix in. As it cooks, the heat will melt it down perfectly.
3. Slow Cook the Chicken:
Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook. Choose either low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is fully cooked and can be easily shredded with two forks.
4. Shred and Mix:
Once cooked, take the chicken out and shred it using two forks right in the slow cooker. Mix it well with the melted cream cheese until everything is combined and creamy.
5. Add Cheese and Bacon:
Now, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, chopped bacon, and green onions. Let it cook for an additional 15-30 minutes so the cheese can melt and everything becomes nice and bubbly.
6. Season and Serve:
Before serving, taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve the warm crack chicken over cooked rice or pile it into buns if you like. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra green onions on top for that finishing touch!
Enjoy your creamy and flavorful Slow Cooker Crack Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts, but you’ll need to add extra cooking time. Cooking on low may take an additional 1-2 hours, and on high, it may take about 1 hour longer than the original recipe time. Be sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Seasoning Mix?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can make your own by mixing 1 tablespoon of dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon of dried dill, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder, and a dash of salt and pepper. This homemade blend will give a similar flavor profile!
How Should I Store Leftover Crack Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. For freezing, make sure the chicken is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove or microwave.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes, if you like a bit of heat, you can add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture before cooking. Feel free to adjust it to your desired spice level for an extra kick!
