Crack Chicken Casserole is a dish that combines everything you love about comfort food into a low-carb masterpiece. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it’s the perfect meal for those on a keto diet or anyone looking for a delicious, satisfying dinner option. This recipe takes simple ingredients and turns them into something extraordinary, making it a go-to for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your family and friends. Get ready to enjoy a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Steps
- Place the trimmed chicken thighs into the slow cooker. Sprinkle the ranch dressing seasoning mix evenly over the chicken, and then place the cream cheese on top.
- Cover the slow cooker with the lid and set it to cook on low for 7 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during this cooking process to maintain consistent heat.
- Once the cooking time is complete, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker. Mix the cooked cream cheese into the shredded chicken thoroughly.
- Stir in the cooked and drained bacon pieces until well combined with the chicken mixture. Spread everything into an even layer within the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the chicken and bacon mix. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt for about 10 minutes.
- Serve the dish over white rice and garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Alternatively, serve over baked potatoes, sandwich rolls, or enjoy it as a dip with crackers.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken thighs (trim excess fat if desired)
- 1 oz. packet of ranch seasoning mix
- 16 oz. cream cheese
- 8 slices of bacon (sliced, cooked, and drained)
- 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of sliced green onions
Nutritional Values
Calories: 690kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 44g | Fat: 53g | Saturated Fat: 26g | Cholesterol: 275mg | Sodium: 1102mg | Potassium: 583mg | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 1430IU | Vitamin C: 1.6mg | Calcium: 297mg | Iron: 1.9mg
FAQ
- Can I substitute chicken breasts for chicken thighs in this recipe?
- Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of thighs in this recipe if that is your preference.
- Is it possible to increase the amount of chicken without altering other ingredients?
- Absolutely, you can use more than 2 lbs of chicken, and the recipe will still turn out well without adjusting the other ingredients.
- How can I make this dish spicier?
- To add some heat, consider using a spicy ranch seasoning packet or adding a jalapeño to the recipe.
- What are some serving suggestions for Slow Cooker Crack Chicken?
- This dish is versatile and can be served over white rice, on toasted hamburger buns, inside baked potatoes, alongside mashed potatoes, or with crackers as a dip. Adding a side salad is also a great option.
- How long should I cook the Crack Chicken in the slow cooker?
- Cook on the low setting for 7 hours, ensuring not to open the lid during the cooking process.
Tips
- Choose Chicken Thighs for Moisture: Opt for chicken thighs instead of breasts to ensure the dish remains moist and flavorful. Thighs contribute to a richer, more decadent texture.
- Limit Sodium with a Single Ranch Packet: To manage the sodium content, use only one packet of ranch seasoning. This will balance the flavors without overwhelming the dish with saltiness.
- Shred Chicken Directly in the Slow Cooker: Save time and dishes by shredding the chicken directly in the slow cooker with two forks, eliminating the need to transfer it to a plate.
- Let Cheese Melt Before Serving: After adding the cheddar cheese, place the lid back on the slow cooker and allow the cheese to melt completely for about 10 minutes. This ensures a creamy, cohesive final dish.
Equipment
- Slow Cooker/Crockpot
- Forks (for shredding the chicken)