Slow Cooker Crack Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish checks all the boxes for easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing meals. The slow cooking process infuses the chicken with ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and smoky bacon for maximum flavor with minimal effort. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it over rice, stuffed into baked potatoes, or piled high on sandwich rolls.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs

• Ranch seasoning mix

• Cream cheese

• Bacon, sliced, cooked, and drained

• Shredded cheddar cheese

• Green onions, sliced

Directions

1. Place chicken thighs in the slow cooker and sprinkle with ranch seasoning mix.

2. Add cream cheese on top of the chicken.

3. Cover and cook on low for 7 hours without lifting the lid.

4. Shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks.

5. Stir in the cooked bacon and mix the cream cheese into the chicken. Spread the mixture evenly in the slow cooker.

6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, cover, and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted.

7. Garnish with green onions and serve warm over rice, baked potatoes, or on sandwich rolls.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 7 hours 10 minutes
Total time: 7 hours 20 minutes

Variations

• Swap chicken thighs for chicken breasts if preferred.

• Add a spicy kick with a spicy ranch mix or a chopped jalapeño.

• Stir in cooked pasta for a one-pot cheesy chicken pasta.

• Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for more heat.

• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between. If the mixture thickens too much, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it.

FAQs

Can I make this with frozen chicken?

Yes, but increase the cooking time by 1–2 hours and ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.

Can I cook this on high instead of low?

Yes, cook on high for 3–4 hours, but the texture will be slightly different.

Is there a lower-fat version of this recipe?

You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and turkey bacon, though the flavor will be a bit lighter.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and vegan cheddar shreds.

What’s the best way to serve it?

Over rice, baked potatoes, pasta, or as a sandwich filling.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but you may need to extend the cooking time slightly for larger quantities.

Does it freeze well?

It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes—reduce cook time to about 2 hours on low just to heat through and meld flavors.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely—try adding broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms during the last hour of cooking.

How do I make it extra cheesy?

Add an additional ½ cup of shredded cheese before serving.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Crack Chicken is the definition of an easy, satisfying comfort dish. With its creamy ranch-infused chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar, it’s a guaranteed hit for family dinners, potlucks, or game-day spreads.

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