This creamy crockpot crack chicken is pure comfort food! Packed with delicious chicken, creamy sauce, and tasty seasonings, it’s a perfect meal for busy days.
I love how easy it is to throw everything in the crockpot and come back to a warm, hearty dish. It’s great in sandwiches or on rice—just yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great because they stay tender in the slow cooker. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can substitute with turkey breasts. Skin-on, bone-in chicken also works well, just adjust the cooking time.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This adds delicious flavor. If you’re in a pinch, make your own mix using dried herbs like parsley, dill, and onion powder, or look for a low-sodium version to cut down on salt.
Cream Cheese: Cream cheese is key for creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using vegan cream cheese or pureed cashews as a rich, creamy substitute. You can also use sour cream for a tangy flavor.
Bacon: Cooked bacon brings a lovely crunch and flavor. If you prefer vegetarian options, try using crispy tempeh or turkey bacon, which also work well in this dish.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese gives gooeyness. You can swap it for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for some heat. For a dairy-free option, use plant-based shredded cheese.
How Do You Achieve Tender Shredded Chicken in the Crockpot?
Cooking chicken in a crockpot results in tender, flavorful meat if done right. The key here is time and moisture. Chicken breasts cook best when they have enough liquid to prevent drying out. Here’s how:
- Once your chicken is thoroughly cooked (6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high), check that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken right in the crockpot. Mix it well with the melted cream cheese and ranch for a smoother creamy texture.
- Let it sit for a few minutes after shredding. The residual heat helps distribute the flavors beautifully!
How to Make Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 package (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seed hamburger buns (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes around 10 minutes for preparation, plus cooking time of 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the crockpot. After all the waiting, you’ll have a delicious and creamy chicken dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crockpot:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot. Evenly sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the top of the chicken. This will give it a tasty flavor!
2. Add the Cream Cheese:
Now, take your cream cheese and cut it into small cubes. Place these cubes right on top of the chicken breasts. This will make the mixture super creamy when it’s done cooking.
3. Pour in the Chicken Broth:
Next, pour the chicken broth over the mixture. This will keep everything nice and moist while cooking.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook. Choose low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. You want the chicken to be cooked through and really tender.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully shred the chicken inside the crockpot using two forks. Mix it well with the cream cheese and ranch mix for a creamy texture.
6. Add Bacon and Cheese:
Stir in the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep mixing until the cheese melts and everything is nice and creamy.
7. Season to Taste:
Give your creamy chicken a taste and add salt and pepper as needed. Adjust it to your liking!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the creamy crack chicken on sesame seed buns. Top with sliced green onions for a nice, fresh garnish. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken breasts; just be sure to cook them on the high setting for 6-7 hours. If using a longer cooking time for frozen chicken, check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
What Can I Substitute for Cream Cheese?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or sour cream—a great choice for a tangy flavor! Just keep in mind that it may not be as thick and creamy, so adjust the amount based on your preference.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the mixture for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating on low heat until warmed through.
Can I Add Additional Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, you can definitely add veggies! Chopped bell peppers, onion, or even spinach will mix well with the chicken. Just add them in at the same time you layer in the cream cheese and chicken broth, so they cook down nicely.
