When it comes to easy, hearty, and flavor-packed meals, few dishes beat Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Crack Chicken. This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, known for its creamy texture, savory flavors, and a touch of bacon for extra richness. Whether you serve it as a main dish or use it as a dip, this indulgent recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
The slow cooker does all the hard work for you, making this a perfect weeknight dinner or a meal prep option. The result is a deliciously creamy chicken dish that you can pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or even spread over a baked potato. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Set it and Forget it: The slow cooker makes this dish incredibly easy to prepare—just throw the ingredients in, set the timer, and relax!
- Creamy & Rich: A perfect blend of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and cheddar cheese creates a creamy, savory sauce that complements the tender chicken and crispy bacon.
- Versatile: You can serve this dish over rice, pasta, or in a sandwich. It also makes an amazing dip!
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It keeps well in the fridge and is easy to reheat for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Ingredients (Measured in Grams)
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 680g)
- 240g cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet (28g) ranch seasoning mix
- 240g shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 strips of bacon (about 180g), cooked and crumbled
- ½ cup (120ml) chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (2g)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder (2g)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (1g)
- Optional: Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slow Cooker
- Layer the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your slow cooker. It’s okay if the chicken breasts are touching, but try not to overcrowd them to ensure they cook evenly.
Step 2: Add the Creamy Ingredients
- In a separate bowl, mix the cream cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and chicken broth until smooth.
- Pour this creamy mixture evenly over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure the chicken is covered with the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Cook on Low: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork when done.
- Check Occasionally: If you’re unsure if the chicken is cooked, check it after 4 hours. It should reach an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) to be fully cooked.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
- Once the chicken is fully cooked and tender, shred the chicken using two forks directly in the slow cooker.
- Stir the chicken in the creamy sauce to combine.
Step 5: Add the Cheese and Bacon
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. You can add a bit more cheese if you like your dish extra cheesy.
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the top and stir it into the mixture. This adds a salty, crispy texture that perfectly complements the creamy chicken.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Serve your Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Crack Chicken over rice, mashed potatoes, or even as a topping for a baked potato. Garnish with chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 22g
- Sugar: 2g
Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Crack Chicken
- Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can substitute chicken thighs for the breasts. They will stay moist and tender in the slow cooker.
- Adjust the Creaminess: Add extra cream cheese or a little more chicken broth to make the sauce even creamier if you like.
- Bacon Substitute: If you’re looking for a healthier version, you can replace the bacon with turkey bacon or skip it altogether for a lower-fat option.
- Add Veggies: To sneak in some veggies, consider adding spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the chicken. These will absorb the flavors of the sauce and add more nutrition to the dish.
- Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. It also freezes well, so you can store it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, just thaw and reheat!
How to Serve Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Crack Chicken
This creamy, flavorful chicken is incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Here are a few ideas:
- Over Rice: Serve it over white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
- In Tacos or Wraps: Use the crack chicken as a filling for soft tortillas or lettuce wraps.
- As a Dip: Serve the chicken as a dip with tortilla chips, crackers, or veggies. It’s a great party appetizer!
- With Potatoes: Top baked potatoes or mashed potatoes with this rich chicken for a hearty, comforting meal.
Final Thoughts
Slow Cooker Cream Cheese Crack Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that combines ease, flavor, and creaminess in one delicious dish. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a meal that tastes like you’ve been slaving over the stove for hours. Whether you enjoy it over rice, mashed potatoes, or as a dip, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit with everyone.
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