Slow Cooker Crack Chicken

This slow cooker crack chicken is creamy, cheesy and packed with bacon flavor. It’s easy to make, comes together with simple ingredients and satisfies every craving.

You may also enjoy crack green beans, creamy Tuscan chicken orzo, classic chicken Sorrentino, and my slow cooker garlic parmesan wings.

Why You’ll Love It

Easy to make: Add everything to the slow cooker and let it do the work. There’s barely any prep time and you need just a few ingredients.
Family favorite: Kids and adults both love the cheesy ranch flavor.
Versatile meal: Serve it on sandwiches, over rice or potatoes, or in toasted buns.
Full of flavor: Bacon, ranch seasoning and cheddar make it a crave-worthy dish. 

Easy Crack Chicken Ingredients

A complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Lean protein that turns tender and shreds easily after cooking. If using frozen chicken breasts, thaw them first.
Chicken broth: Keeps the chicken moist and adds depth of flavor.
Dry ranch dressing mix: Brings zesty, herby, delicious flavors to the dish (the Hidden Valley brand is my go-to!)
Cream cheese: Gives the sauce its creamy base and rich texture.
Bacon: Adds a salty smoky crunch throughout the chicken.
Cheddar cheese: Melts into the chicken for gooey cheesy goodness.
Green onions: Provide a fresh bite and color on top. You can add extra, after shredding the chicken, if you want it more oniony.

How to Make Creamy Crockpot Crack Chicken

For more detailed instructions with weights and measurements, jump to the printable recipe card.

Add chicken: Put the chicken breasts into the slow cooker.
Season: Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle dry ranch seasoning mix over the chicken.
Add cream cheese: Scatter the cubes over the top of the chicken mixture, then cover and cook until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The cooking time can vary, so check often (you don’t want to overcook the chicken!)
Shred: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce.
Add bacon: Stir in half the cooked bacon.
Finish: Top with shredded cheese, remaining bacon and sliced green onions, then let the cheese melt before serving this delicious meal with your preferred sides.

Substitutions and Variations

Gluten-free option: Use a certified gluten-free ranch seasoning.
Dairy-free option: Use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives.
Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos for heat.
Different cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Colby Jack or White Cheddar.
Chicken breast: Chicken thighs work well too.
Add garlic: Add a teaspoon of minced garlic to the mixture or a pinch of garlic powder.
Bacon: You can substitute turkey bacon. I don’t recommend bacon bits in this recipe.
Make it a dip: Thin the sauce with more chicken broth if you plan on serving it as a dip. About ¼ would work.

Serving Suggestions

Pair it with potatoes: Enjoy your cheesy chicken spooned over garlic mashed potatoes or with one of these fall potato recipes. Baked potatoes or potato chips also work.
Low carb creamy chicken: As this is a low carb dish, you could make lettuce wraps. Romaine lettuce would be ideal for this.
Make crack chicken sandwiches: Serve it between hamburger buns or toasted sourdough bread.
Other side dishes that work: Eat crack chicken with onion rings and cooked pasta. Pickled carrots and pickled banana peppers would contrast well with the rich creaminess, or you could try tortilla chips, or white or brown rice.

How to Store Crockpot Crack Chicken

Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: I don’t recommend freezing as the cream cheese sauce can separate.
Reheat: If storing leftovers, warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.