Crockpot Crack Chicken

The best way to make Crockpot Crack Chicken from scratch! This slow cooker twist on our classic crack chicken recipe features tender chicken breasts in a rich, creamy ranch sauce. It’s incredibly easy to make and delicious, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: Simply add all the ingredients to your crockpot and let it do the work while you enjoy your day.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of cream cheese and ranch seasoning creates a mouthwatering sauce that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, in sandwiches, or as a dip with crackers—perfect for any occasion.
• Feeds a Crowd: With 6 generous servings, this recipe is great for meal prep or sharing at potlucks.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and savory flavors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Using the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to make Crockpot Crack Chicken.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Forks (for shredding)

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: This essential tool allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your chicken becomes tender and infused with flavor.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining ingredients before adding them to the crockpot, helping ensure everything is evenly mixed.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precise measurements are key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Mixture

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast
• 12 oz cream cheese (room temp)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 Tbsp ranch powder
• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground black pepper

For the Topping

• 8 oz Turkey Bacon (chopped and cooked)
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese

How to Make Crockpot Crack Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Place the chicken breasts, cream cheese, minced garlic, ranch seasoning, butter, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper into the crockpot.

Step 2: Cook the Mixture

• Cover with the lid and cook on high for 3–4 hours or on low for 6–7 hours.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

• Once cooked, take out the chicken and shred it using two forks until it’s fully pulled apart.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

• Return the shredded chicken to the crockpot along with the cooked Turkey Bacon and shredded cheese. Stir everything together thoroughly.

Step 5: Melt Cheese & Serve

• Cook until the cheese is melted. Serve warm with your favorite sides or as a filling in sandwiches. Enjoy!

How to Serve Crockpot Crack Chicken

Crockpot crack chicken is versatile and can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you want a hearty meal or a quick snack, this dish satisfies every craving.

As Sandwiches

• Serve the creamy chicken mixture on your favorite bread or rolls for a satisfying sandwich experience. Top with fresh lettuce and tomatoes for added crunch.

With Rice

• Pairing crockpot crack chicken with steamed rice creates a comforting dish. The rich sauce seeps into the rice, making every bite flavorful.

Over Salad

• For a lighter option, spoon the crack chicken over a bed of mixed greens. Add some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for an easy, fresh salad.

In Tacos

• Use tortillas to create tasty tacos filled with crack chicken. Garnish with avocado slices or shredded lettuce for extra flavor.

With Pasta

• Toss the creamy mixture with cooked pasta for a luxurious twist. It’s an easy way to make a filling meal that everyone will love.

As A Dip

• Serve it warm as a dip with tortilla chips or crackers. This makes for an excellent appetizer at gatherings or game days.

How to Perfect Crockpot Crack Chicken

To ensure your crockpot crack chicken turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use room temperature cream cheese – This helps it blend smoothly with the other ingredients, creating a creamy texture.

• Shred the chicken properly – Use two forks to shred the chicken well; this allows it to absorb more of the flavors from the sauce.

• Adjust seasoning – Taste before serving and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for enhanced flavor.

• Keep it covered while cooking – This retains moisture and helps cook everything evenly in the slow cooker.

• Add vegetables – Consider adding veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Crack Chicken

Pairing side dishes with crockpot crack chicken enhances your meal experience. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes complement the richness of the chicken sauce beautifully.
2. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and contrasts well with the creamy texture of crack chicken.
3. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn is a classic side that balances out savory dishes like this one.
4. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients, making your plate more balanced.
5. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad offers nutty flavors that pair nicely with the richness of the main dish.
6. Green Beans Almondine – This simple green bean dish brings both crunch and elegance to your table, elevating your meal.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes add a healthy touch while their natural sweetness contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
8. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers filled with grains or beans make for filling accompaniments that work well alongside crack chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Crockpot Crack Chicken can be simple, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for.

• Ignoring the chicken’s thickness: Using uneven chicken breasts can lead to inconsistent cooking. Always try to use similar-sized pieces for even results.
• Not seasoning properly: Skipping or underestimating seasoning can make your dish bland. Ensure you measure and add the ranch powder and salt as instructed.
• Overcrowding the crockpot: Filling the crockpot too full can prevent proper cooking. Stick to the recommended amounts in the recipe for best results.
• Failing to shred the chicken: Leaving the chicken whole will result in a different texture. Shredding helps it absorb the sauce better and enhances flavor.
• Not allowing enough time for cooking: Rushing the cooking time can leave your chicken tough. Make sure to follow the recommended cooking times based on your setting.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Crockpot Crack Chicken

• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Crack Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, stir until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crockpot Crack Chicken:

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, make sure they are fully cooked before shredding.

What can I substitute for ranch powder?

You can make your own ranch seasoning using herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder if you don’t have ranch powder.

How spicy is this Crockpot Crack Chicken?

This recipe is not spicy; it’s creamy and savory. You can add hot sauce if you prefer some heat.

How do I customize this recipe?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra flavor and nutrition. Feel free to experiment!

Final Thoughts

Crockpot Crack Chicken is a delicious option that’s perfect for any dinner table. Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it versatile enough for sandwiches, wraps, or even served over rice. Customize it with your favorite toppings or add-ins to suit your taste!