Slow Cooker Crack Chicken has everything that makes a dish irresistible and delicious! It’s packed with juicy chicken, creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch dressing mix—all slow-cooked to perfection.
I know the name might sound a little strange, but it’s the one people search for the most—so that’s what we’re sticking with! This dish is known for its simple ingredients and bold, rich flavors that melt in your mouth with every bite.
I first made this recipe for busy families who want a quick and comforting meal, and it quickly became a hit across the internet. Whether you’re making it for dinner or meal prep, this creamy shredded chicken is guaranteed to be a favorite.
Looking for the best crack chicken recipe? No matter what cooking method you choose, this easy crack chicken recipe is a must-try. You can use a slow cooker, a crock-pot, or a stovetop. You can even make a crack chicken pasta version! Packed with chicken, bacon, cheddar cheese, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning, it’s the ultimate comfort food.
Slow Cooker Crack Chicken – Why I Love This
Crock pots and comfort food are the perfect combo. I created this crock-pot crack chicken recipe to make weeknights easier for my family. It’s now a favorite in our home! Here’s why:
- Addictive flavors: Cheesy, creamy, and loaded with bacon.
- Quick prep: Just 5 minutes of work and the slow cooker does the rest.
- Versatile: Serve it over rice, in sandwiches, wraps, or even as a dip.
What Exactly Is Crack Chicken?
The name “crack chicken” came from the internet because it’s so addictive! The combo of chicken, bacon, ranch, and cheese is just too good to stop eating. It’s become so popular that we now have crack chicken pasta, buffalo crack chicken, baked crack chicken, and instant pot crack chicken versions!
Crack Chicken Ingredients
You don’t need much to make this delicious meal. Here’s what you’ll need for the original crack chicken recipe:
- Chicken thighs or chicken breasts (thighs are juicier)
- Ranch dressing mix (or dip mix)
- Cream cheese
- Cheddar cheese (sharp is best!)
- Cooked bacon
- Green onions (optional but flavorful)
- Chicken broth (for extra moisture in some versions)
Crack Chicken Recipe Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Protein | Chicken thighs or breasts |
| Flavor Base | Ranch dressing mix |
| Creaminess | Cream cheese + cheddar cheese |
| Topping | Crispy cooked bacon + optional green onions |
| Cook Time (Crockpot) | 6-7 hours on low |
| Serving Ideas | Rice, buns, mashed potatoes, or dip |
How to Make Crack Chicken
Making this dish is incredibly easy, especially in the slow cooker or crock-pot.
Step-by-Step (Slow Cooker or Crockpot):
- Add the chicken to your slow cooker (about 2-3 thighs or breasts).
- Sprinkle with 1 packet of ranch seasoning.
- Top with cream cheese (just place it on top).
- Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 7 hours. Avoid opening the lid while cooking.
- After 7 hours, shred the chicken right in the pot using 2 forks.
- Add cooked crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Cover again for a few minutes to melt the cheese.
- Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Stovetop Crack Chicken Recipe
Want it faster? Try this stovetop crack chicken recipe:
- Cook chicken in a large pan with a bit of oil until done.
- Add ranch seasoning and cream cheese, stir until melted.
- Add shredded cheddar and cooked bacon.
- Stir everything until creamy and hot. Serve right away!
Try This Twist: Buffalo Crack Chicken Recipe
Add a spicy kick by mixing in ¼ cup buffalo sauce after shredding the chicken. Great for spicy sandwich sliders or wraps!
Make It a Meal: Crack Chicken Pasta
Love pasta? Stir the finished crack chicken into cooked pasta (like penne or rotini) for a cheesy, filling meal. You can even bake it as a crack chicken casserole with extra cheese on top.
What to Serve With Crack Chicken
Here are some tasty ways to enjoy this dish:
- Over white rice
- Inside toasted hamburger buns
- With mashed potatoes
- Stuffed in a baked potato
- Served with crackers as a dip
- In a tortilla or lettuce wrap
- Alongside a fresh salad
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.
Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Recipe
- Slow Cooker Chicken Pot Pie
- Mississippi Chicken
- Artichoke Mushroom Chicken
- Crockpot Chicken and Dumplings
- Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta
Final Thoughts
This easy crack chicken recipe is creamy, cheesy, and so full of flavor! It’s the perfect dish for Sunday dinner, meal prep, or even entertaining guests. Whether you try the crockpot crack chicken recipe, baked crack chicken recipe, or crack chicken instant pot version, it’s going to be a hit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Crack Chicken
What is Crack Chicken made of?
Crack Chicken is made with chicken, ranch seasoning mix, cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked bacon. You can add green onions for extra flavor and serve it with rice, buns, or as a dip.
Why is it called Crack Chicken?
It’s called Crack Chicken because it’s so addictive! The creamy, cheesy, bacon-filled flavor combination makes people keep coming back for more—just like the name suggests.
Can I make Crack Chicken in a Crock-Pot?
Yes! The crock-pot crack chicken recipe is one of the most popular methods. Simply add chicken, ranch mix, and cream cheese to your crockpot, cook on low for 6-7 hours, then shred the chicken and add cheese and bacon.
How do I make Crack Chicken on the stovetop?
To make a stovetop crack chicken recipe, cook chicken in a skillet, then stir in ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. Add the cooked bacon and mix until everything is melted and creamy.
Can I turn this into Crack Chicken Pasta
Absolutely! To make crack chicken pasta, just stir the finished creamy chicken mixture into cooked pasta. You can also bake it with extra cheese for a crack chicken casserole.
Can I make this in the Instant Pot?
Yes! For a fast version, try the crack chicken recipe Instant Pot method. Pressure cook chicken with a little broth and ranch seasoning, then stir in cream cheese, bacon, and cheddar after shredding.
What’s the difference between the original crack chicken and buffalo crack chicken?
Original crack chicken is creamy and savory, while buffalo crack chicken includes buffalo sauce for a spicy twist. You can make it by adding ¼ cup of buffalo sauce after the chicken is cooked and shredded.
What goes well with crack chicken?
Some great serving options:
- Over white rice
- Inside hamburger buns or wraps
- On top of mashed potatoes or in a baked potato
- With crackers as a hot dip
- With a fresh green salad
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes. While chicken thighs stay more tender and moist, chicken breasts work well too. Just avoid overcooking to keep them juicy.
How do I store and reheat leftover crack chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to keep it creamy.