Why Make This Recipe

Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken is a fantastic dish for anyone looking to serve up a delicious, comforting meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. This recipe is highly convenient because it uses a slow cooker, allowing you to throw in your ingredients, set it, and forget it! The combination of creamy cheese, savory ranch seasoning, and tender chicken creates an irresistible flavor that is sure to please the whole family. Plus, it can be used in various ways—whether you serve it as a sandwich filling, on top of a salad, or alongside some veggies.

How to Make Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken

Making Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken is simple and requires minimal hands-on time. Below are the ingredients you will need to get started, along with step-by-step directions.

Ingredients:

2 lbs chicken breast
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Place Chicken Breasts in the Crock Pot: Begin by placing 2 pounds of chicken breasts directly into the bottom of your crock pot. You can use fresh or frozen chicken for this recipe. If using frozen, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Sprinkle Ranch Seasoning Over the Chicken: Open the packet of ranch seasoning mix and evenly sprinkle it over the chicken breasts. The ranch seasoning is what gives this dish its signature flavor. You can add more or less according to your taste preference.
Cut Cream Cheese into Chunks: Take your 8 oz cream cheese and cut it into small chunks. Place these chunks directly on top of the chicken. The cream cheese will melt during cooking, adding a rich creaminess to the dish.
Cover and Cook: Now, cover your crock pot with the lid and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The low setting is usually recommended for the best flavor and texture. Check for doneness by ensuring that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F.
Shred the Chicken in the Pot: Once the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken right inside the crock pot. This step allows the chicken to soak in all the flavorful juices and creaminess from the cream cheese.
Stir in Cheese and Bacon: Now, it’s time to add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of cooked, chopped bacon to the shredded chicken. Stir everything together until well combined.
Cook for an Additional 30 Minutes: Cover the crock pot again and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes. This will ensure that the cheese melts nicely and everything is piping hot.
Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish with 1/4 cup of sliced green onions before serving. This adds a nice crunch and a pop of color that will make your dish even more appetizing.

How to Serve Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken

Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken can be served in several pleasing ways. Here are some popular serving suggestions:

On a Bun: Use this delicious mixture as a filling for sandwiches or sliders. Toast some hamburger buns or slider rolls to make them even better.
On a Salad: For a healthier option, spoon the crack chicken over a bed of mixed greens. Add additional toppings like tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocado to create a full salad.
With Tortillas: Scoop the crack chicken into tortillas for a fun twist. Top with fresh cilantro, avocado, or additional cheese for added flavor.
As a Dip: Serve the crack chicken as a warm dip at parties or gatherings. Use tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetable sticks for dipping.

How to Store Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken

If you have leftovers or plan to make this dish ahead of time, storing it properly is essential:

In the Refrigerator: After the chicken has cooled to room temperature, transfer it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
In the Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the crack chicken. Place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. It will stay fresh for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to label the container with the date.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed throughout.

Tips to Make Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken

Use Chicken Thighs: For a richer flavor, you can substitute chicken breast with chicken thighs, which will remain juicy and tender.
Add Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables such as diced bell peppers or onions to the crock pot for added nutrition and flavor.
Adjust Spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning according to your taste. You can add garlic powder, onion powder, or even some hot sauce for a kick.
Check for Doneness: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches the proper safety temperature (165°F).

Variation

Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken is versatile, and you can customize it effortlessly. Consider these variations:

Buffalo Chicken Version: Substitute ranch seasoning for buffalo sauce for a spicy flavor. You can also add blue cheese for an extra kick.
BBQ Chicken Version: Replace the ranch seasoning with your favorite BBQ sauce for a different flavor profile altogether.
Cheesy Spinach Variation: Stir in some fresh spinach to the mix at the end of cooking for a healthier, veggie-packed version.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes! You can use frozen chicken breasts. Just ensure you cook it longer to ensure it reaches the right temperature.

Q2: Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
A: Absolutely! This dish is excellent for meal prepping as it stores well in the fridge or freezer and makes for easy reheating.

Q3: Can I make this in a regular pot instead of a crock pot?
A: Yes, you can! If you don’t have a crock pot, you can cook everything in a regular pot on the stove. Just use low heat and watch it closely to prevent burning, stirring occasionally until the chicken is cooked through.

This Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken is a winner for any busy family looking for a delicious meal. Enjoy the rich flavors, satisfy your taste buds, and make mealtime stress-free!

Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken

Author: ethanmiller
Total Time: 375 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Paleo

Print Recipe

Description

A creamy and flavorful crock pot dish featuring chicken, ranch seasoning, and cheese, perfect for sandwiches or salads.

Ingredients

Scale

2 lbs chicken breast
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked bacon, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot.
Sprinkle ranch seasoning over the chicken breasts.
Cut cream cheese into chunks and place on top of the chicken.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken inside the pot.
Stir in cheddar cheese and chopped bacon until combined.
Cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Notes

For a richer flavor, consider using chicken thighs. You can also customize the spices to your preference.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 360 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 550mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: crock pot, easy chicken recipe, comfort food, meal prep