Crockpot Crack Chicken: The Ultimate Creamy Chicken Sliders Recipe
Introduction to Crockpot Crack Chicken
Crockpot Crack Chicken is a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish that has taken the internet by storm. This recipe features tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a slow cooker, combined with rich cream cheese, savory Ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy family dinner, it’s a dish that’s as easy to make as it is satisfying to eat. Let’s dive into why this dish has become a favorite among home cooks everywhere!
A Personal Story Behind My Crockpot Crack Chicken Journey
I still remember the first time I stumbled upon the concept of Crack Chicken. I was at a potluck, and a friend brought this incredible chicken dish. The enticing aroma wafted through the room, and I couldn’t wait to taste it. After one bite, I was hooked! The creamy texture and burst of flavors made it a standout. Since then, I’ve made it countless times for friends and family, and it always garners rave reviews. It’s more than just food; it’s a way to bring people together!
What Makes This Crockpot Crack Chicken Recipe Special?
What sets this Crockpot Crack Chicken apart is its simplicity and versatility. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. The slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken incredibly moist. Plus, it’s customizable—serve it as sliders, over rice, or alongside your favorite veggies. You can even adjust the toppings to suit your palate. It’s comfort food at its finest!
The Full Crockpot Crack Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 ½ – 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 3-4 chicken breasts)
- ½ cup chicken broth (low or no sodium)
- 1 ounce packet Ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ pound bacon, cooked and crumbled (divided)
- ½ cup sliced green onions (divided)
- Hamburger or slider buns (optional)
Instructions
- Start by spraying the inside of a 6-quart oval slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Place the chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom of the slow cooker. Pour the chicken broth over the chicken to keep it moist during cooking.
- Sprinkle the Ranch seasoning mix on top of the chicken. This is where the flavor begins! Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours without removing the lid.
- Once the chicken is cooked through, shred it using two forks directly in the slow cooker. It should fall apart easily. Be sure to keep the broth in the pot as it adds moisture and flavor.
- Add the cubed cream cheese to the shredded chicken. Stir until creamy and well combined. This step is crucial for achieving that rich texture.
- Now, add half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and half of the sliced green onions. Mix well to incorporate all the ingredients.
- Top the mixture with the remaining cheese and bacon. Cover the slow cooker for 5-10 minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully.
- Finally, remove the lid and sprinkle the rest of the green onions on top for a fresh crunch. Serve warm!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Crockpot Crack Chicken
Crockpot Crack Chicken is incredibly versatile. For a fun party idea, serve it as sliders on hamburger buns. Just spoon the crack chicken onto halved buns, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing appetizer. You can also serve it over rice for a hearty meal or with a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded plate. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for a kick, or add some diced jalapeños for extra heat. The possibilities are endless!
Frequently Asked Questions About Crockpot Crack Chicken
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour or so, as frozen chicken takes longer to cook.
How can I make this dish healthier?
You can use low-fat cream cheese and reduce the amount of cheese or bacon to make it lighter while still keeping the flavors intact.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just mix everything into the slow cooker in the morning and let it cook while you’re out!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you ensure your Ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free, this recipe can be enjoyed by those with gluten sensitivities.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2-3 hours on high or 4-5 hours on low
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes – 5 hours 10 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 350
- Servings: 6-8
Crockpot Crack Chicken
Equipment
- 6-quart oval slow cooker Essential for slow cooking the chicken.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts about 3-4 chicken breasts
- 0.5 cup chicken broth low or no sodium
- 1 ounce Ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese softened and cubed
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese divided
- 0.5 pound bacon cooked and crumbled, divided
- 0.5 cup sliced green onions divided
- 1 package hamburger or slider buns optional
Instructions
- Spray the inside of a 6-quart oval slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place the chicken breasts in an even layer at the bottom. Pour chicken broth over the chicken and sprinkle Ranch seasoning mix on top.
- Cover and cook on high for 2-3 hours or low for 4-5 hours without removing the lid.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken using two forks. Keep the broth and add the cubed cream cheese. Stir until creamy and well combined.
- Add half of the shredded cheddar cheese, half of the crumbled bacon, and half of the sliced green onions. Mix well. Top with the remaining cheese and bacon.
- Cover the slow cooker for 5-10 minutes to melt the cheese. Remove the lid and sprinkle the rest of the green onions.