Comfort Crock Pot Crack Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This Comfort Crock Pot Crack Chicken is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. With tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a rich ranch sauce, it’s a perfect meal for busy days when you want comfort food without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3/4 cup cooked bacon pieces
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 oz dry ranch dressing seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the chicken breasts into the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces evenly over the chicken to distribute the flavor.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan, combine the cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, chicken broth, ranch seasoning, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until smooth and fully combined. Whisk well to remove any cream cheese lumps for a creamy sauce.
- Step 3: Pour the creamy ranch sauce evenly over the chicken and bacon in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Step 4: When ready, serve the chicken and sauce over pasta, rice, or potatoes. For extra flavor, sprinkle with chopped fresh herbs or additional cheddar cheese before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version and simply warm with the sauce in the slow cooker.
- Substitute turkey bacon or shredded turkey for a leaner protein option.
- Add chopped green onions or garlic powder to the sauce for a flavor boost.
Storage
Store leftover crack chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This dish is not ideal for freezing as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but you should increase the cooking time to ensure the chicken cooks thoroughly and reaches a safe internal temperature.
Is this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
This recipe can fit into a low-carb or keto diet by serving it without starchy sides like pasta or potatoes. The ingredients themselves are low in carbs and rich in fat, aligning with keto guidelines.
PrintComfort Crock Pot Crack Chicken Recipe
Comfort Crock Pot Crack Chicken is a creamy, savory slow cooker dish featuring tender boneless chicken breasts smothered in a rich ranch-flavored sauce with bacon and cheddar cheese. This easy, hands-off recipe is perfect for a comforting family meal served over pasta, rice, or potatoes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes to 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken and Bacon
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3/4 cup cooked bacon pieces
Creamy Ranch Sauce
- 1 package (8 oz) cream cheese
- 1 can (10.5 oz) unsalted cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 oz dry ranch dressing seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken and bacon: Place the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts into the bottom of a 6-quart slow cooker. Sprinkle the 3/4 cup cooked bacon pieces evenly over the chicken to ensure every bite has bacon flavor.
- Make the creamy ranch sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine the cream cheese, unsalted cream of chicken soup, low-sodium chicken broth, dry ranch dressing seasoning, and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture is smooth, melted, and fully combined. Whisk thoroughly to remove any lumps for a smooth sauce.
- Combine and slow cook: Pour the prepared creamy ranch sauce evenly over the chicken and bacon in the slow cooker. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 4 to 6 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The sauce will infuse flavor into the chicken as it cooks.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the tender crack chicken and sauce over your choice of pasta, rice, or potatoes. Spoon plenty of sauce over each serving to soak into the starch. Optionally, garnish with chopped fresh herbs or extra shredded cheddar cheese for added vibrancy and flavor.
Notes
- Cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker; ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- You can use turkey bacon instead of pork bacon for a leaner alternative.
- For a thicker sauce, you can stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water during the sautéing step.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Keywords: crack chicken, crock pot recipes, slow cooker chicken, creamy ranch chicken, bacon chicken, easy dinner, comfort food
