Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot Recipe
If you are craving a rich, creamy, and downright addictive meal, Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot is your new best friend. This dish combines tender shredded chicken with tangy ranch seasoning, smoky bacon, and melty cheeses creating a luscious blend of flavors and textures that will have you coming back for seconds. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its irresistible taste but in its effortless preparation, making it perfect for busy days or when you want comfort food without the fuss. Trust me, once you try Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot, it’ll quickly become a staple in your low-carb repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The simplicity of this recipe is part of its charm, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering a creamy, satisfying experience. From savory chicken broth to the signature ranch seasoning, every component builds on the next for that signature flavor and texture.
- Chicken broth: Provides a flavorful base that keeps the chicken moist and tender during cooking.
- Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning packet: Brings that iconic tangy and herby punch essential for any ranch lover’s dream dish.
- Defrosted chicken breasts: The hearty protein that soaks up the delicious seasoning and creamy sauce perfectly.
- Philadelphia Cream Cheese: Adds rich creaminess that turns the dish into an irresistible velvety delight.
- Cooked and crumbled bacon: Injects a smoky crunch that balances the softness of the chicken and cheese.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the dish, contributing a sharp, gooey goodness that completes the flavor profile.
How to Make Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by adding 1/2 cup of chicken broth to your slow cooker, then stir in the entire packet of Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning. This step builds the fundamental savory and tangy sauce that will infuse the chicken throughout the cooking process.
Step 2: Add the Chicken
Place 2 pounds of defrosted chicken breasts directly into the crock pot, submerging them into the broth and ranch mixture. The chicken will gently absorb all those delicious flavors while becoming incredibly tender during the slow cooking.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover the crock pot and cook the chicken on high for about 4 hours or on low for 8 hours. This low and slow method ensures your chicken turns out juicy and fall-apart tender, perfect for shredding.
Step 4: Shred and Combine
Once the cooking time is up, shred the chicken right in the crock pot using two forks. Then add the chunks of Philadelphia Cream Cheese, crumbled cooked bacon, and 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Give everything a thorough stir so that the cheeses melt evenly and the bacon is well distributed.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
Put the lid back on and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes to allow the cream cheese to melt fully, creating that luxurious, creamy texture that defines this dish.
How to Serve Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes elevates the dish by introducing pops of color and bursts of freshness. Consider sprinkling chopped green onions, fresh parsley, or a few sliced jalapeños for a mild kick. These simple touches complement the creamy richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot pairs wonderfully with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice, sautéed zucchini noodles, or steamed broccoli. These sides soak up any leftover sauce, balancing indulgence with wholesome nutrition.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond a typical plate, try serving this delectable chicken over a bed of lettuce or stuffed inside halved avocados for a fun twist. You could also use it as a filling for keto-friendly wraps or even spoon it atop crispy cheese crisps to add a delightful crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it a fantastic option for meal prep or a quick next-day lunch that tastes just as good as freshly made.
Freezing
If you’d like to stash some for even longer, this dish freezes perfectly. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and keep for up to 3 months. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid drying out the chicken. Adding a splash of chicken broth or water while reheating can help maintain its creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work wonderfully and add extra juiciness. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if necessary, and you’ll still achieve that creamy, flavorful result.
Is there a substitute for the ranch seasoning packet?
If you don’t have a ranch packet on hand, you can mix your own using dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. This way, you control the seasoning to your taste.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot for an Instant Pot by using the meat/stew setting and adjusting the cooking time to about 15 minutes on high pressure, followed by a quick release.
Is this recipe suitable for low-carb and keto diets?
Definitely! This dish is packed with healthy fats and protein while being low in carbs, making it a perfect match for keto and other low-carb lifestyles.
How spicy is Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot?
This recipe is generally mild, with a flavorful but not spicy profile. You can easily add heat by incorporating chili flakes or hot sauce according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that delivers big on flavor and creamy comfort, you simply have to try Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot. It’s one of those magical recipes that feels special but takes almost no effort, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep sessions. Once you make it, I guarantee it will quickly become a loved classic in your kitchen. So grab your crock pot, gather these simple ingredients, and get ready for a deliciously satisfying experience that’s pure comfort in every bite.
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Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (high) or 8 hours 10 minutes (low)
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
Keto Crack Chicken in the Crock Pot is a creamy, flavorful, and easy-to-make slow cooker dish that’s perfect for low-carb and keto diets. This recipe combines tender chicken breasts with ranch seasoning, cream cheese, bacon, and cheddar cheese to create a rich and delicious meal that melts in your mouth.
Ingredients
Chicken and Broth
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 pounds defrosted chicken breasts
Seasoning
- 1 Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning packet
Cheeses and Bacon
- 8 oz Philadelphia Cream Cheese, cut into chunks
- 8 slices cooked and crumbled bacon
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Slow Cooker: Add the chicken broth to the slow cooker and stir in the Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning packet until well combined. Place the defrosted chicken breasts into the broth mixture, ensuring they are submerged.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 8 hours until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker.
- Add Cream Cheese, Bacon, and Cheddar: Add the chunks of Philadelphia Cream Cheese, crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese into the slow cooker. Stir all ingredients together until evenly mixed.
- Melt the Cheese: Cover the slow cooker again and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, or until the cream cheese has completely melted and the mixture is creamy and combined.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken breasts are fully defrosted before cooking for even cooking.
- You can use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch or turkey bacon as a lighter alternative.
- Feel free to add chopped green onions or parsley for garnish and flavor.
- Serve this dish over cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete keto-friendly meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours (high) or 8 hours (low)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Keto Crack Chicken, Crock Pot Chicken, Keto Slow Cooker Recipes, Low Carb Chicken, Keto Dinner
