Description
Creamy, cheesy crack chicken brings irresistible comfort to dinner tables across America. Rich flavors meld together, creating a crowd-pleasing dish you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5–2 pounds or 680–907 grams)
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
Dairy and Cheese:
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Seasonings and Liquids:
- 1 packet (1 ounce or 28 grams) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt
- Pepper
Garnish (Optional):
- Fresh parsley
- Green onions
Instructions
- Prepare the oven at 375°F (190°C) for potential baking method.
- Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker or skillet, seasoning thoroughly with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Generously spread softened cream cheese across the surface of the chicken, ensuring complete coverage.
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning evenly over the cream cheese layer to infuse robust flavor profile.
- Select cooking method: slow cook on low for 4-6 hours or bake for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches complete tenderness and internal temperature indicates full cooking.
- After cooking, utilize two forks to meticulously shred the chicken into delicate, uniform strands.
- Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese and crispy crumbled bacon into the shredded chicken, stirring until cheese melts and ingredients blend seamlessly.
- Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped green onions to add a vibrant, zesty finishing touch before serving.
Notes
- Opt for chicken thighs as an alternative for a more succulent and flavorful dish that stays extra moist during cooking.
- Consider using low-fat cream cheese and turkey bacon for a lighter, healthier version without compromising taste.
- Prep the chicken ahead of time and freeze in portioned containers for quick weeknight meals that save time and reduce stress.
- Transform this recipe into a versatile filling for wraps, stuffed peppers, or as a topping for baked potatoes to keep meals exciting and prevent menu fatigue.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (slow cooker) or 30 minutes (baking)
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 395 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 670 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg