If you’re searching for a dish that’s creamy, cheesy, and downright addictive, look no further than Crack Chicken. This slow cooker crack chicken recipe combines tender shredded chicken, rich cream cheese, smoky bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning. It’s the kind of comfort food that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day gatherings, or meal prep for the week.
Let’s break down everything you need to know to make the best slow cooker crack chicken at home.
⭐ What Is Crack Chicken?
Crack chicken is a creamy chicken dish that gets its name because it’s so flavorful and irresistible that people jokingly say it’s as addictive as “crack.” It usually features a combination of shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, and ranch seasoning. When made in a slow cooker, the chicken becomes tender and infused with all those rich flavors.
🛒 Ingredients for Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 (8 oz) blocks cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tablespoons homemade ranch mix)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for extra moisture)
- Fresh chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
👉 Tip: Use low-fat cream cheese and turkey bacon for a lighter version!
🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
1️⃣ Add the chicken
Place your chicken breasts (or thighs) at the bottom of your slow cooker.
2️⃣ Top with cream cheese and seasoning
Cut the cream cheese into chunks and place over the chicken. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning evenly on top. If you like, pour in the chicken broth — it helps keep things extra moist, though many recipes skip this because the chicken releases its own juices.
3️⃣ Let it cook
Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook:
- On low for 6-7 hours
- On high for 3-4 hours
Avoid lifting the lid during cooking so the heat stays in!
4️⃣ Shred the chicken
Once cooked, shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker using two forks. Stir well so the chicken mixes with the melted cream cheese and juices.
5️⃣ Add bacon and cheese
Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar and crumbled bacon. Stir again until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
6️⃣ Garnish and serve
Top with fresh parsley for color, and your crack chicken recipe is ready to serve!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This slow cooker crack chicken is super versatile! Try it:
✅ On toasted buns as a sandwich
✅ Over rice or mashed potatoes
✅ Inside a tortilla as a wrap
✅ On top of a baked potato
✅ With steamed veggies for a low-carb meal
✅ On lettuce leaves for a keto-friendly lettuce wrap
💡 Tips for Success
Use chicken thighs if you want extra juicy, tender meat.
Add veggies — stir in cooked spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms at the end for added nutrition.
Meal prep friendly — this reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
🔄 Variations
Spicy crack chicken: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
BBQ crack chicken: Stir in a bit of your favorite barbecue sauce at the end for a smoky-sweet twist.
Buffalo crack chicken: Mix in buffalo sauce for a tangy, spicy flavor.
❓ Common Questions
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes — but make sure you cook on low so it cooks evenly and thoroughly. You may need to add an extra hour to the cook time.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Absolutely! Use the pressure cook function on high for 15 minutes, then quick release. Shred, add cheese and bacon, and stir.
Is crack chicken keto-friendly?
Yes! The basic recipe is low-carb and keto-approved. Just skip serving it on bread or rice and pair with veggies or lettuce wraps.
📝 Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and easy to prepare, this slow cooker crack chicken recipe is a must-try. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a meal that your whole family will love — and you’ll love how easy it is to make. Whether served on buns, over rice, or in a low-carb wrap, crack chicken is guaranteed to be a hit.