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, perfect for busy weeknights or gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: With minimal prep time, you can set it and forget it while the slow cooker does all the work.
• Flavor Explosion: The creamy ranch sauce combined with tender chicken creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
• Versatile Meal Options: Enjoy it on its own or serve it over rice, in sandwiches, or as a filling for tacos.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or game day gatherings—this dish is sure to impress!
• Comfort Food Delight: Rich and creamy, this recipe offers a warm embrace of comfort food that satisfies.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Crockpot Crack Chicken, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Mixing Bowl
• Measuring Cups and Spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow Cooker: The star of the show! It allows for hands-off cooking, ensuring your chicken comes out tender every time.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe and clean surface for chopping ingredients like garlic and cooked turkey bacon.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accuracy in ingredient quantities, leading to consistent flavor in every batch.

Ingredients

To prepare your delicious Crockpot Crack Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Chicken

• 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
• 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 boneless skinless chicken breast into the slow cooker.
• Add the room temperature cream cheese on top of the chicken.
• Sprinkle in minced garlic and ranch powder.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients

• Cut the unsalted butter into small pieces and distribute them evenly over the mixture.
• Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle with salt and black pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

• Cover the slow cooker with its lid.
• Cook on high for 3–4 hours or on low for 6–7 hours until the chicken is fully cooked.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

• Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts from the crockpot using tongs or a slotted spoon.
• Shred them using two forks until they are fully pulled apart.

Step 5: Combine Everything

• Return the shredded chicken back to the crockpot.
• Add in cooked turkey bacon and shredded cheese; stir everything together until well mixed.
• Cook for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

• Spoon out portions onto plates or into bowls.
• Serve warm with your favorite sides or enjoy as a sandwich filling. Enjoy friends!

How to Serve Crockpot Crack Chicken

Crockpot Crack Chicken is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply having a cozy dinner, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal.

As a Main Dish

• Serve it hot over rice for a comforting dinner.
• Pair it with mashed potatoes for a creamy and hearty meal.

In Sandwiches

• Use crusty bread or hamburger buns to create delicious sandwiches.
• Add lettuce and tomatoes for a fresh crunch.

With Salads

• Spoon it over a bed of mixed greens for a flavorful salad.
• Combine with coleslaw for added texture and flavor.

As Appetizers

• Serve in small bowls as a dip with tortilla chips or crackers.
• Place it on skewers for easy bite-sized servings at parties.

How to Perfect Crockpot Crack Chicken

To ensure your Crockpot Crack Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: This helps the cream cheese blend smoothly into the sauce without lumps.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper according to your preference before serving.
• Cook Low and Slow: For the best flavor, cooking on low heat for 6-7 hours allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors.
• Add Vegetables: Consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Garnish Before Serving: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives to enhance presentation and taste.

Best Side Dishes for Crockpot Crack Chicken

Crockpot Crack Chicken pairs beautifully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to complement your meal.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes an excellent companion, perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition, balancing out the richness of the chicken.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that absorbs flavors well while providing a healthy base.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch, making it a favorite at summer gatherings.
5. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad offers texture and nutrients, enhancing your meal’s overall appeal.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes bring natural sweetness that contrasts nicely with the savory chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Crockpot Crack Chicken, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Incorrect Cooking Time: Ensure you monitor the cooking time closely. Cooking on high for too long can dry out the chicken, while cooking on low for too short may leave it undercooked. Stick to the recommended times for best results.
• Skipping the Shredding Step: Don’t skip shredding the chicken after cooking. This step allows the shredded meat to soak up all the delicious flavors from the sauce, enhancing the overall taste.
• Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Be mindful of salt and seasoning levels. Depending on your broth and ranch powder, you might need to adjust these ingredients to suit your flavor preferences.
• Overcrowding the Crockpot: If you’re doubling the recipe, consider using a larger crockpot or cooking in batches. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and affect texture.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the crockpot. Cold cream cheese can create lumps in your sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Crockpot Crack Chicken in an airtight container.
• It will remain fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Crockpot Crack Chicken

• To freeze, place it in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be stored for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Crockpot Crack Chicken

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding Crockpot Crack Chicken that might help you.

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if preferred. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I serve with Crockpot Crack Chicken?

This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or as a filling for sandwiches. You can also serve it over a bed of greens for a lighter option.

How do I make it spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into your mixture.

Is there a vegetarian alternative?

To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with plant-based protein options like chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Final Thoughts

The Crockpot Crack Chicken is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with different proteins or toppings based on your preference. Try this recipe for your next gathering, and enjoy its rich flavors that everyone will love!