Slow Cooker Crack Chicken

Published: Jun 28, 2023 by Kristin 81 Comments

Indulge in creamy, cheesy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken! A flavorful blend of shredded chicken, cream cheese, Ranch seasoning, and BACON! Effortlessly create a simple, addictive, and flavor-packed meal for any occasion!

Crack Chicken Recipe

You may be wondering what exactly is Crack Chicken? Its the addictive combination of shredded chicken, cream cheese, Ranch dressing mix, and bacon. Basically, comfort food at its finest and perfect for potlucks, picnics, gatherings, or busy weeknights! Although I don’t love the name, it is a recipe that has been passed down for generations!

This keto-friendly dish can be served warm or cold, as sandwiches, over pasta, rice, in tortillas, or even a bed of lettuce. It fits any diet and is incredibly versatile!

Ingredients Needed for Creamy Crock-pot Crack Chicken

Easy to make dinner options are my FAV and this recipe is just that! Using just a few simple ingredients, this hearty meal comes together in no time and is family approved. See printable recipe card below for exact ingredient amounts and step by step directions.

Chicken Breast– I use boneless, skinless breasts. No need to dice them, simply place into your slow cooker
Cream Cheese– this brings the creaminess to the recipe! I use plain cream cheese, but chive and onion flavor works great too
Ranch Dressing Mix– homemade or store bought packet Ranch seasoning works great
Bacon– cooked and crumbled, use jalapeno bacon for an added flavor kick
Cheddar Cheese/Green Onions– optional of course, but highly recommended. Add cheesy goodness and an added garnish to the finished dish

How to make Slow Cooker Crack Chicken

This recipe is so easy! In fact, after trying it once, you’ll wonder where it has been all your life! Dump the ingredients into your slow cooker, move on with your day, and come dinnertime, you’ll have a meal the entire family will enjoy.

In a slow cooker, place the boneless skinless chicken on the bottom, followed by the cream cheese, dry Ranch seasoning mix, and bacon.
Place lid on slow cooker and cook low for 6-8 hours, or high for 4 hours.
Remove lid and shred chicken using two forks.
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and green onions and serve!

Tips for the best Creamy Crack Chicken

Use real bacon in lieu of bacon bits. Real bacon has much more flavor!
Cook this low and slow. You definitely don’t want to overcook this and have it dry out, so cook on low if possible.
This recipe can easily be doubled and the leftovers can be frozen. It is perfect to keep in the freezer when you need a quick meal.
Chunk the cream cheese into smaller pieces before adding it on top of the chicken so it blends in easier.
This can also be enjoyed as a dip for parties, appetizers, and more! Crack Dip is great on crackers, vegetables, and more!

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, they store easily and are just as tasty the next day!

Refrigerator: place in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
Freezer: store in a freezer safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions: Allow to thaw if frozen and reheat in 30 second increments in the microwave.

What to eat Crack Chicken With

Hamburger Buns or Pita Bread
Over Mashed Potatoes
White Rice
Wrapped in a lettuce wrap or tortilla
On top of cooked pasta
As a dip with crackers, vegetables, or pretzels

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good side dish to this meal?

Depends on how you choose to serve this chicken, however, I typically serve ours as a sandwich with some fries or onion rings. I add in a simple side salad and we all devour the meal!

Why is it called Crack Chicken?

Although I don’t really love the name, it was labelled “crack chicken” due to the fact it is addictive and you’ll want more!

Is this recipe Keto friendly?

Absolutely! Serve this on lettuce wraps or on its own for a low-carb, Keto crack chicken meal!

Can I use bacon bits in this recipe to save on time?

Yes! I always recommend using real bacon if possible, but you can also look for the packages that say real bacon bits on them.

What equipment do I need to make Creamy Crack Chicken?

Just a slow cooker! To make clean up easy, you can get slow cooker liners, but that’s about it!

Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?

Yep! In fact, that’s what I always do. Just make sure you are cooking the chicken on low all day and you’re set.

Can I use chicken thighs in this recipe?

Yes! That works great too, simply adjust the cook time a bit!

Can I make this in the Instant Pot?

Sure can! HERE is that recipe!

More Chicken Recipes to try

Instant Pot Crack Chicken Pasta– chicken pasta loaded with cheddar, bacon and ranch! Seriously delicious!

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole– chicken, pasta, ranch seasoning, crumbled bacon, and cheese in a tasty dish! Using only a few simple ingredients, this casserole is quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights!

Crock Pot BBQ Chicken– an easy, affordable meal option packed with flavor! Shredded BBQ Chicken on a Hawaiian Roll with some cabbage slaw for an added crunch. Perfect for an appetizer, meal, or tailgating!

Slow Cooker Chicken Ranch Tacos– chicken breasts slow cooked in taco seasoning, ranch dressing mix, and chicken broth and served in tortillas with your favorite toppings!

Ultimate Chicken Casserole– tender noodles, shredded chicken, bacon, corn, and more!

an up close look at crack chicken sandwiches

Print Recipe

4.18 from 73 votes