Can I use homemade ranch seasoning instead of a packet?

Absolutely. If you have a favorite homemade ranch blend, use about 1 tablespoon (adjust to taste). It’s a great way to control salt and flavor.

Can I make Slow Cooker Crack Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! It’s a fantastic make-ahead recipe. Cook it, cool it, and store it for easy lunches and dinners all week.

How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days . Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2–3 months .

What’s the best way to reheat it?

Microwave: Add a splash of broth or milk, then heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between. Stovetop: Warm on low with a little broth to loosen it up.

Can I make it less rich?

You can. Use reduced-fat cream cheese, reduce cheddar slightly, and serve it in lettuce cups or over veggies. It’ll still taste creamy and satisfying—just a bit lighter.

Slow Cooker Crack Chicken: 5 Irresistible Wins

Description

Slow Cooker Crack Chicken is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with ranch flavor and crispy bacon. It’s an easy dump-and-go dinner that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, burgers, or lettuce cups.

Ingredients

Scale

½ cup low sodium chicken broth
1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
8 ounces cream cheese, room temperature, cut into 4 pieces
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped
Chopped green onions, for serving
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Mix the base: Add chicken broth to the slow cooker and stir in the ranch seasoning mix.
Cook the chicken: Add chicken breasts and turn to coat. Cover and cook on LOW for 5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours.
Shred: Shred the chicken right in the slow cooker using two forks.
Make it creamy: Stir in cream cheese and 1½ cups cheddar until melted and smooth. Sprinkle remaining cheddar on top, cover, and let melt.
Finish: Top with chopped bacon. Garnish with green onions and parsley. Serve warm.

Notes

Room-temp cream cheese melts faster and blends smoother.

For extra melty results, shred your own cheddar (but bagged works too!).

If the mixture seems thick, stir in a splash of broth until it’s just right.

Great for meal prep—leftovers reheat beautifully.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 hours (LOW) or 2–3 hours (HIGH)
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe
Calories: 470 kcal
Sugar: 2 g
Sodium: 980 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Fiber: 0 g
Protein: 44 g
Cholesterol: 170 mg