Imagine a warm, comforting dish that requires little effort but delivers maximum flavor. That’s what Easy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken offers — tender, shredded chicken infused with creamy goodness, ranch zing, and crispy bacon. Weeknight dinners become effortless with this recipe, perfect for busy families or anyone who wants a rewarding meal with minimal fuss. Once you try this savory delight, you’ll understand why it has become a favorite among home cooks.
Why make this recipe
Why you’ll love this dish
This Easy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Packed with flavors that kids love and adults can’t resist, it’s especially great for those hectic weeknights when you want something comforting yet simple. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, requiring just a handful of ingredients you likely already have on hand.
“This dish was devoured by my whole family! The flavor was incredible, and it was so easy to make. 10 out of 10 would recommend!” – Happy Home Cook
How to make Easy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
Step-by-step overview
Making Easy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken is as simple as toss, set, and forget! The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward process, which leaves you plenty of time to tackle life’s other demands. Here’s how it all comes together:
Ingredients
What you’ll need
To craft this mouthwatering dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- Green onions for garnish
If you’re looking to switch it up, consider using Greek yogurt in place of cream cheese for a lighter version, or swap out the cheddar for pepper jack for an extra kick!
Directions
Step-by-step instructions
Now that you have your ingredients assembled, let’s get started on the cooking:
- Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.
- Add the cream cheese directly on top of the chicken.
- Pour the chicken broth around the edges of the chicken to keep it moist.
- Cover the pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Serve over rice, pile it into sandwiches, or enjoy with your favorite crackers.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
How to serve Easy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving up this delicious dish, the options are endless! You can serve it over fluffy rice for a comforting bowl meal, pile it high in a bun for a hearty sandwich, or scoop it onto crispy crackers for easy appetizers. Pair with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance all those rich flavors.
How to store
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any unused Crack Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to make
Helpful cooking tips
For the best results, make sure your chicken breasts are evenly placed in the slow cooker so they cook through uniformly. If you prefer a thicker consistency, reduce the chicken broth slightly. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle in some garlic powder or onion powder for an extra flavor boost!
Variations
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! Want it spicier? Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. You can easily cater it to fit dietary needs — think low-carb by replacing rice with cauliflower rice, or making it richer by stirring in additional cheeses before serving.
Common questions
Your questions answered
Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Just increase the cooking time by about an hour to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
You can create a simple homemade version using equal parts garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, thyme, and some salt.
How can I make it gluten-free?
Look for a gluten-free ranch seasoning mix and ensure that the bacon is also gluten-free. Enjoy!
Easy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
A warm, comforting dish of tender, shredded chicken infused with creamy ranch flavor and crispy bacon, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken.
- Add the cream cheese directly on top of the chicken.
- Pour the chicken broth around the edges of the chicken to keep it moist.
- Cover the pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Serve over rice, pile it into sandwiches, or enjoy with your favorite crackers.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt. Consider swapping cheddar for pepper jack for an extra kick.