Crockpot Crack Chicken and Rice

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food with minimal effort, Crockpot Crack Chicken and Rice is your new go-to recipe. This dish combines the creamy richness of cheese and cream cheese with savory chicken, smoky bacon, and ranch seasoning—all slow-cooked to perfection. Add some cooked rice, and you’ve got a one-pot wonder that’s hearty, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. It’s called “crack” chicken for a reason—once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, this dish requires little more than layering ingredients into your slow cooker and letting it work its magic. The slow cooking method ensures that the chicken turns out tender and flavorful, soaking in the rich, cheesy goodness. The addition of rice transforms this into a complete, filling meal that the whole family will love. With minimal prep, simple ingredients, and a huge payoff in flavor and texture, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a viral favorite. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just want leftovers that reheat beautifully, Crockpot Crack Chicken and Rice ticks all the boxes for an easy, crave-worthy dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Set-It-and-Forget-It Simplicity: Toss everything into your crockpot and let it cook while you go about your day.
2. Incredibly Flavorful: Ranch seasoning, bacon, and two types of cheese infuse the chicken and rice with irresistible flavor.
3. Creamy and Comforting: The melted cream cheese and cheddar create a rich, velvety texture that’s perfect for cozy meals.
4. Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters love this dish—it’s cheesy, meaty, and satisfying.
5. Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers store and reheat well, making it ideal for planning ahead.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Low-sodium chicken broth
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Cream cheese (cubed, room temperature)
• Shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Shredded mozzarella cheese
• Cooked bacon (chopped)
• Sliced green onions
• Cooked rice (added before serving)

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
• Low-Carb Version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice or serve over roasted vegetables.
• Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or gouda for a flavor change.
• Vegetable Add-In: Mix in peas, corn, or steamed broccoli for added nutrition.
• Turkey Bacon Option: Use turkey bacon for a lighter, leaner version.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Layer the Chicken

Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your crockpot.

Step 2: Add Seasoning and Broth

Sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the chicken and pour in the chicken broth.

Step 3: Add Cream Cheese

Top with cubed cream cheese. Do not stir—just place it over the chicken.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shredded.

Step 5: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return it to the slow cooker and stir to mix with the melted cream cheese.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Bacon

Stir in most of the shredded cheddar, mozzarella, cooked bacon, and green onions. Reserve a little of each for garnish.

Step 7: Stir in Cooked Rice

Add your pre-cooked rice and stir until fully combined and heated through.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

Top with the remaining cheese, bacon, and green onions. Serve hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use room temperature cream cheese for easier melting and blending.
• Pre-cooked rice saves time—white, brown, or even wild rice works.
• For crispier bacon, cook it separately and add it just before serving.
• Avoid overcooking the chicken—it should be fork-tender, not dry.
• Stir gently after adding rice to avoid breaking the grains down too much.

How to Serve

Serve Crockpot Crack Chicken and Rice hot in bowls or plates, garnished with extra green onions and cheese. It pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a heartier meal. It’s also great as a filling for wraps or stuffed into baked potatoes for a fun twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions for easy reheating. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, or warm on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, but be sure they are thawed before placing in the crockpot for even cooking.

2. What kind of rice should I use?

Any cooked rice works—white, brown, jasmine, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

3. Can I cook the rice in the crockpot with the chicken?

It’s best to add cooked rice at the end to avoid mushiness.

4. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless thighs are a flavorful and juicy alternative.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be, if you use a gluten-free ranch seasoning and ensure your bacon and broth are gluten-free.

6. Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely! Use a larger crockpot and adjust the cook time slightly if needed.

7. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes—use the sauté function for the bacon, then pressure cook the chicken and broth with ranch seasoning. Stir in the other ingredients after cooking.

8. What’s the best way to shred chicken?

Use two forks or a hand mixer for quick shredding.

9. How can I make it less salty?

Use low-sodium broth, unsalted bacon, and reduced-sodium cheese.

10. Can I leave out the bacon?

Yes, but the bacon adds a lot of flavor and texture. Consider replacing it with crispy fried onions or turkey bacon.

Conclusion

Crockpot Crack Chicken and Rice is everything you want in a comfort food meal: rich, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. With minimal prep and the magic of slow cooking, it’s a reliable and family-approved dish that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a hungry crowd or prepping lunches for the week, this recipe delivers big on taste and convenience. Make it once, and it just might become your favorite crockpot recipe yet.

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