If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that practically cooks itself, Crockpot Crack Chicken is your answer! This rich and creamy dish combines shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar into one irresistible slow cooker meal.
Whether you serve it as a sandwich filling, over rice, or as a game day dip, this addictive chicken recipe is guaranteed to be a hit with your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless: Just dump everything in the crockpot and let it cook.
- Family-Friendly: Creamy, cheesy, and flavorful—kids love it!
- Versatile: Serve as a sandwich, dip, pasta topping, or over rice.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make it ahead and reheat for busy nights or potlucks.
What Is Crack Chicken?
Crack Chicken is a creamy, cheesy ranch chicken that gets its name from how addictive it is. It’s like the beloved crack dip but heartier, thanks to tender shredded chicken and plenty of melted cheese and bacon.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All you need are a few pantry staples and fresh chicken:
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness).
- Cream Cheese & Butter: The base of that luscious creamy sauce.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic or a dash of garlic powder.
- Ranch Seasoning: Dry ranch mix gives the dish its signature flavor.
- Chicken Broth: Keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- Cheese: Shredded cheddar, Colby Jack, or your favorite melty cheese.
- Bacon: Cooked and chopped—crispy is best!
How to Make Crockpot Crack Chicken
This slow cooker crack chicken recipe comes together in 4 simple steps:
1. Add Everything to the Crockpot
Place the chicken, cream cheese, minced garlic, ranch seasoning, butter, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper in your crockpot.
2. Cook Until Tender
- Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and shreds easily.
3. Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the crockpot.
4. Stir in Cheese and Bacon
Add shredded cheese and chopped cooked bacon. Stir until the cheese melts into the creamy sauce.
Serving Ideas
Crockpot Crack Chicken is super versatile:
- Over Rice or Pasta: Makes a hearty, comforting dinner.
- As Sandwiches or Sliders: Pile it onto soft buns for the ultimate party food.
- As a Dip: Serve warm with crackers, crostini, or tortilla chips.
- In Wraps or Tacos: Add lettuce and tomato for a fun twist.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating
- Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.
- Freeze: Not recommended—cream cheese doesn’t freeze well.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prep all ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before. Refrigerate overnight, then cook the next day for effortless dinner!
Tips for Success
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken reaches 165°F.
- For extra smoky flavor, use smoked cheddar or smoked paprika.
- Don’t skip the bacon—it adds crunch and saltiness to balance the creamy sauce.
Crockpot Crack Chicken Recipe
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours
Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Tbsp ranch powder
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp ground black pepper
- 8 oz bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
- Add chicken, cream cheese, garlic, ranch powder, butter, broth, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
- Cover and cook on low 6–7 hours or high 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Shred chicken with two forks and return it to the crockpot.
- Stir in shredded cheese and cooked bacon until the cheese melts.
- Serve warm over rice, in sandwiches, or as a dip—and enjoy!
This creamy, cheesy Crockpot Crack Chicken is the kind of cozy, satisfying meal that everyone will request again and again