Easy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
(Creamy, Cheesy & So Addictive!)
Looking for a recipe that’s insanely easy, ultra-creamy, and packed with flavor? Meet your new favorite comfort food: Slow Cooker Crack Chicken.
This creamy ranch chicken with cream cheese and cheddar is slow-cooked to perfection, turning into tender, juicy shredded chicken that’s completely irresistible. Whether you’re using it in sandwiches, rice bowls, or just enjoying it straight from the spoon, this crockpot crack chicken delivers every time.
What Is Crack Chicken?
“Crack chicken” is a fun nickname for this wildly popular recipe that combines chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and cheddar cheese. The flavors are so addicting that people say it’s like “crack”—once you try it, you’re hooked!
It’s rich, savory, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. And thanks to the slow cooker, it practically makes itself.
Why This Crack Chicken Recipe Works
Super easy to make – Just dump everything in and let the crockpot do the work.
Only 5 minutes of prep – No chopping or complicated steps.
Family-friendly – Kids and adults alike will devour it.
Perfect for meal prep – Great for leftovers or freezer meals.
Keto-friendly and low-carb – Ideal for anyone on a low-carb or high-protein diet.
Whether you’re hosting game day, feeding a crowd, or looking for a lazy weeknight dinner, slow cooker crack chicken is a reliable go-to.
Easy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
Need a creamy, cheesy comfort meal with zero fuss? This Slow Cooker Crack Chicken is ready in minutes and perfect for sandwiches, bowls, or straight from the spoon!
Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Slow Cooker Crack Chicken
Prep Time: 5minutes minutes
Cook Time: 6hours hours
Total Time: 6hours hours 5minutes minutes
Servings: 6
Ingredients You’ll Need
This easy recipe only requires a handful of pantry staples:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 3 lbs)
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 1 oz dry ranch seasoning mix (or 3 tablespoons)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 bunch green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Pro Tip: You can substitute chicken breasts with boneless skinless thighs for an even juicier result.
Step 1: Load Up the Slow Cooker
Place the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crockpot. Pour in the chicken broth to keep the meat moist. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning evenly over the chicken. Then, place the cubed cream cheese on top.
Step 2: Cook Low and Slow
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Step 3: Shred and Mix
Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Mix well to combine the shredded chicken with the melted cream cheese and ranch seasoning.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken mixture and cover for another 5–10 minutes, until the cheese melts into the sauce.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Top with sliced green onions or crumbled bacon if you like, and serve it hot!
How to Serve Crack Chicken
There are so many delicious ways to enjoy this creamy, cheesy chicken:
- On sandwich rolls – The ultimate cheesy chicken sandwich
- Over rice or cauliflower rice – A great gluten-free or low-carb meal
- In wraps or tacos – Add lettuce and tomato for a Tex-Mex twist
- Stuffed into baked potatoes – Total comfort food
- On top of a salad – Great way to add protein to your greens
- As a dip – Serve warm with tortilla chips or crackers
No matter how you serve it, creamy chicken crockpot recipes like this one are always a hit.
Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up? Try these easy variations:
- Spicy Crack Chicken: Add 1–2 tablespoons of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Chicken Bacon Ranch: Stir in cooked and crumbled bacon at the end for an extra indulgent flavor.
- Crack Chicken Casserole: Stir in cooked pasta or steamed broccoli for a hearty casserole twist.
- Lighter Version: Use light cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar.
Storage & Reheating
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezer: You can freeze this cheesy shredded chicken for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Makes 6)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 219 kcal |
| Protein | 27g |
| Fat | 9g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 831mg |
| Calcium | 276mg |
| Cholesterol | 73mg |
This keto crack chicken recipe is low in carbs and high in protein, making it ideal for anyone on a low-carb, high-fat, or high-protein diet.
Can I use frozen chicken in the slow cooker?
It’s not recommended. Cooking frozen chicken in the crockpot may take too long to reach a safe internal temperature. For best results, thaw the chicken first.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
Yes! To make Instant Pot Crack Chicken, cook everything (except cheddar) on High Pressure for 15 minutes with a natural release. Shred the chicken, stir in the cheddar, and you’re done!
Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Try stirring in cooked spinach, steamed broccoli, or frozen peas after shredding the chicken for added texture and nutrition.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just make sure your slow cooker can handle the volume. Cook time remains the same, but it may take slightly longer to heat through.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Crack Chicken recipe is proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen to make a delicious meal. With creamy ranch flavor, tender chicken, and melty cheese, it’s comfort food at its best—easy enough for busy weeknights and satisfying enough to feed a crowd.
Whether you’re following a low-carb diet, cooking for picky eaters, or just love a set-it-and-forget-it dinner, this dish is always a win.
So go ahead—grab your crockpot, throw in a few simple ingredients, and get ready to experience why this dish is called crack chicken. You’ll be hooked after one bite!
