Crack Chicken Recipe

This Crack Chicken Recipe features a creamy ranch sauce loaded with gooey cheddar cheese and smoky bacon!

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What would you say if I told you that you can create a deliciously cheesy chicken dish with just six ingredients, minimal prep, and your slow cooker? I’m guessing you’d be game. Lucky for you, that’s what this crack chicken recipe is all about—convenience and ease.

I recently read about crack chicken and knew I just had to make my own version. It’s one of those dishes that you ask, “Where have you been all my life?” Now, I have to warn you about something. This is not a low-calorie, low-fat recipe. It is so rich in flavor that I use it as a “cheat” meal on occasion.

When making this dish, I like to shred the cheese by hand from bricks rather than using store-bought shredded cheese. The reason is that pre-shredded cheese often contains fillers such as cellulose to prevent clumping in the package. That same anti-clumping agent also hinders melting. Freshly shredded cheese will melt much better in this recipe. Trust me—it’s worth the effort!

Where did crack chicken originate, you may ask? No one knows for sure, but it seems to have evolved from food bloggers looking to create the ultimate party dip. However this recipe began, it’s a dish where each of us can make our spin—I hope you enjoy mine!

Let’s get creative

I enjoy getting creative with recipes and modifying them each time I make them. After all, variety is the spice of life. For example, you can swap the pork bacon for turkey bacon—it’s leaner but still gives you that smoky flavor. You can also tweak flavors by changing cheeses. Monterey Jack, a Mexican blend, or pimento cheese are all excellent alternatives.

Adding herbs is another good idea. Some to consider include Italian seasoning, oregano, thyme, and garlic. And while this recipe is not dairy-free, you can substitute with plant-based versions of cream cheese and cheddar cheese to make it so.

Vegetable add-ins include sliced mushrooms, diced carrots, chopped broccoli, green beans, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives. For a bit of heat, add a small amount of crushed red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce. If you plan on serving this as a dip, I recommend sprinkling some French-fried onions on top for added crunch.

How do I store leftovers?

Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature before refrigerating them in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Once chilled, you can also freeze leftovers in freezer-safe containers or zippered bags for up to 3 months. Defrost the frozen chicken in the refrigerator overnight, or until it is thawed. Reheat in a 350°F oven until heated through, approximately 10-15 minutes. Stir the crack chicken once halfway through reheating. You can also reheat in the microwave in 90-second intervals, stirring after each time.

Serving suggestions

As much as I love a rich, decadent dish, like this crack chicken recipe, I feel the need to balance it with simple sides. This Keto Salad is ideal if you are on a low-carb diet; otherwise, try the chicken alongside this refreshingly crisp Apple-Pecan Fall Salad. For something simpler, make some Steamed Asparagus or Roasted Carrots And Parsnips. Craving dessert? Conclude with this creamy and decadent Keto Chocolate Mousse.