why make this recipe

This dish is very easy and needs little work. You put the ingredients in the crock pot and let it cook. It makes creamy, cheesy chicken that many people like. It saves time and gives a tasty meal for busy days.

introduction

This recipe uses simple pantry items and a slow cooker. You can set it and forget it while you do other tasks. For easy side ideas that pair well with this dish, see these easy baking solutions for busy evenings.

how to make Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken

Follow the steps below. Use low heat for slow cooking or high heat if you are short on time. After the chicken cooks, shred it and mix well so the sauce coats every piece.

Ingredients :

2 lbs chicken breasts
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Directions :

Place chicken breasts in the crock pot.
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the chicken.
Add cream cheese on top.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
Once cooked, shred the chicken in the pot and mix it with the creamy sauce.
Stir in cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
Serve topped with sliced green onions.

how to serve Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken

Serve this chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or in sandwich buns. It also works well as a taco or on baked potatoes. For party ideas and other simple appetizers, try these 25 best New Year’s Eve appetizers that go well with slow cooker mains.

how to store Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken

Let the chicken cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container and refrigerate up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

tips to make Easy Crock Pot Crack Chicken

Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for best results.
If you prefer, use chicken thighs; they stay moist and add flavor.
Cut larger breasts to even sizes so they cook the same.
Mix the cheese and bacon in after shredding to keep the texture right.
Reheat gently on low heat so the cream cheese does not separate.
For a different meal idea with chicken, you can pair leftovers with a simple pasta like this chicken with marinara sauce.

variation (if any)

Make it spicy: add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños.
Lighter version: use low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar.
Slow cooker to stove: cook the chicken in a covered pan with a little broth if you do not have a crock pot.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken?
A: Yes, but add 1 to 2 hours to the cooking time on low and check it reaches 165°F.

Q: Can I skip the bacon?
A: Yes. The bacon adds flavor, but the dish is still good without it.

Q: How do I make this less creamy?
A: Use less cream cheese or add a splash of chicken broth to thin the sauce.

Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes for thawed chicken, then shred and mix in cheese and bacon.

Conclusion

For another slow cooker take on this popular dish, see this Slow Cooker Crack Chicken recipe for more ideas and variations.