Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that's as irresistible as its name suggests? Meet the Easy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken—a creamy, cheesy, and utterly addictive meal that will have your family begging for seconds! With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, this American classic is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Imagine the delightful aroma wafting through your home as this savory chicken cooks to perfection in your slow cooker. Trust us, once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your slow cooker. Plug it in and set it to the low heat setting.
- Take the 2 lbs of chicken breasts and place them in the bottom of the slow cooker, ensuring they are spread out evenly.
- Open the packet of ranch seasoning and sprinkle it evenly over the chicken breasts. Make sure all the chicken is coated with the seasoning for maximum flavor.
- Next, take the 8 oz of cream cheese and cut it into smaller cubes. This will help it melt more evenly during cooking. Place the cream cheese cubes on top of the seasoned chicken breasts.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and let the chicken cook on low for about 6 hours. During this time, the chicken will become tender and flavorful.
- After 6 hours of cooking, carefully remove the lid. Use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, mixing it with the melted cream cheese and ranch seasoning to create a creamy, cohesive mixture.
- Once the chicken is shredded, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of bacon bits to the mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, allowing the cheese to melt and incorporate into the chicken.
- After everything is well mixed, cover the slow cooker again and let it sit for an additional 10-15 minutes on low heat to allow the cheese to fully melt.
- Once the cheese is melted and everything is heated through, turn off the slow cooker. Serve the crack chicken warm, garnished with chopped green onions for added flavor and color.
- This dish can be served on its own, over rice, in a sandwich, or in lettuce wraps. Enjoy your Easy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prep the chicken and seasonings the night before. Just store them in the fridge and pop them in the slow cooker in the morning.
- Chicken Variations: While the recipe calls for chicken breasts, feel free to experiment with thighs for a richer flavor or even a mix of both!
- Cream Cheese Substitutes: If you want a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
- Add Extra Flavor: For an added kick, mix in some hot sauce or diced jalapeños before cooking. You can also add garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth.
- Serve Creatively: This dish is versatile! Serve it over rice, in a sandwich, or even in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Garnish for Greatness: Don’t skip the green onions! They add a fresh crunch that balances the creaminess of the dish beautifully.
- Leftover Magic: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 39g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: mg
