Name: Crockpot Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 5 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lb chicken breasts; 1 oz packet ranch seasoning; 16 oz cream cheese; crumbled bacon and green onions

This crockpot chicken delight is an incredibly effortless and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Let your slow cooker do all the work while you enjoy tender, flavorful chicken infused with creamy goodness. Topped with crumbled bacon and fresh green onions, this dish is sure to be a hit at the dinner table.

Photos of Crockpot Chicken Recipe

While most of the ingredients for this recipe are common, ranch seasoning and cream cheese might not be staples in every household. Be sure to pick these up when you visit the supermarket. The ranch seasoning will add a zesty flavor, while the cream cheese will provide a rich and creamy texture.

Ingredients for Crockpot Chicken Delight

chicken breasts: The main protein for the dish, providing a tender and juicy texture.

ranch seasoning: A flavorful mix of herbs and spices that adds a zesty kick to the dish.

cream cheese: Adds a rich and creamy texture to the chicken.

crumbled bacon: Provides a savory and crispy topping that complements the creamy chicken.

green onions: Adds a fresh and slightly sharp flavor to balance the richness of the dish.

One reader, Enrika Batts says:

Crockpot chicken delight is a game-changer! The chicken is incredibly tender and flavorful, thanks to the ranch seasoning and cream cheese. Topping it with crumbled bacon and green onions adds the perfect touch. It's an easy, delicious meal that my whole family loves. Highly recommend!

Enrika Batts

Mastering the Techniques for Crockpot Chicken Delight

How to shred chicken: Use two forks to pull the chicken apart into shreds after it has been cooked. How to cook with a slow cooker: Place ingredients in the slow cooker, set the temperature to high or low, and cook for the specified amount of time.

How To Make Crockpot Chicken

This easy to cook and prepare crockpot chicken dish is made with only 3 ingredients, and easily cooked in a crockpot for a hearty meal.

Preparation: 5 minutes

Cooking: 4 hours

Total: 4 hours 5 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2lbChicken Breastsboneless, skinless
1ozpacket ranch seasoning
16ozcream cheesecut into cubes
crumbled bacon and green onionscooked, for serving, optional

Instructions

Place the chicken breasts, ranch seasoning, and cream cheese in a slow cooker.
Cook on high for 4 hours or low for 6 to 8 hours.
Shred the chicken with two forks. Stir until everything is thoroughly combined.
Serve, topped with bacon and green onions if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 533.11kcal
Fat: 40.23g
Saturated Fat: 18.76g
Trans Fat: 0.16g
Monounsaturated Fat: 12.35g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.14g
Carbohydrates: 6.18g
Fiber: 0.53g
Sugar: 2.51g
Protein: 36.46g
Cholesterol: 179.92mg
Sodium: 372.47mg
Calcium: 137.78mg
Potassium: 469.28mg
Iron: 3.07mg
Vitamin A: 319.22µg
Vitamin C: 0.57mg

Expert Technique Tips for Crockpot Chicken Delight

For a richer flavor, sear the chicken breasts in a hot pan with a bit of oil before placing them in the slow cooker. This will add a nice caramelized layer to the chicken and enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Crockpot Chicken Delight

Pre-cut ingredients: Pre-cut the chicken breasts and cream cheese the night before to save time in the morning.

Use pre-cooked bacon: Opt for pre-cooked bacon to eliminate the need for frying and crumbling it yourself.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Slow cooker liners: Use slow cooker liners for easy cleanup, saving you time on washing dishes.

Instant pot option: If you have an Instant Pot, use it to cut down the cooking time significantly.

Substitute Ingredients For Crockpot Chicken Recipe

chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts offer a similar texture and flavor profile, making them a suitable replacement for chicken breasts.
chicken breasts - Substitute with tofu: For a vegetarian option, tofu can mimic the texture of chicken when cooked properly and will absorb the flavors of the dish.
ranch seasoning - Substitute with Italian seasoning: Italian seasoning provides a different but complementary flavor profile that can enhance the dish similarly to ranch seasoning.
ranch seasoning - Substitute with garlic and herb seasoning: This blend offers a robust flavor that can stand in for the tangy and herby notes of ranch seasoning.
cream cheese - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a healthier alternative to cream cheese.
cream cheese - Substitute with ricotta cheese: Ricotta cheese offers a similar creamy consistency and can be used to achieve a similar texture in the dish.
crumbled bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that still provides the smoky flavor and crispy texture of traditional bacon.
crumbled bacon - Substitute with vegetarian bacon: For a vegetarian option, vegetarian bacon can provide a similar smoky and crispy element to the dish.
green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives offer a mild onion flavor and can be used as a garnish to replicate the taste and appearance of green onions.
green onions - Substitute with leeks: Leeks provide a slightly sweeter and more delicate onion flavor, making them a good alternative to green onions.

Presenting Your Crockpot Chicken Delight

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the chicken in elegant, bite-sized portions to enhance the visual appeal and allow for a refined tasting experience.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with a delicate sprinkle of crumbled bacon and finely chopped green onions, ensuring they are evenly distributed for a balanced look.
Plate with precision: Arrange the shredded chicken in a neat, compact mound at the center of the plate, creating a focal point that draws the eye.
Add texture contrast: Incorporate a crispy element, such as a thin bacon crisp or a toasted bread slice, to provide a delightful textural contrast to the creamy chicken.
Use a sauce drizzle: Lightly drizzle a complementary sauce, such as a ranch reduction or a herb-infused oil, around the chicken to add visual interest and enhance the flavors.
Incorporate color: Add a pop of color with a small side of seasonal vegetables or a microgreen salad, arranged artfully on the plate to create a vibrant and inviting presentation.
Utilize elegant plating tools: Use a ring mold to shape the chicken mixture into a perfect circle, ensuring a clean and professional appearance.
Highlight the creaminess: Allow a small amount of the cream cheese to be visible, showcasing its rich texture and adding a touch of indulgence to the dish.
Balance the elements: Ensure that each plate has a harmonious balance of chicken, bacon, and green onions, creating a cohesive and well-rounded presentation.
Finish with finesse: Add a final touch of elegance with a light dusting of freshly ground black pepper or a few edible flowers, elevating the dish to a Michelin-star level.

Essential Tools for Making Crockpot Chicken Delight

Slow cooker: This is the main appliance used to cook the chicken breasts, ranch seasoning, and cream cheese slowly over several hours.
Measuring scale: Useful for accurately measuring the 2 lb of chicken breasts.
Measuring cup: Needed to measure the 16 oz of cream cheese.
Forks: Used to shred the cooked chicken breasts.
Mixing spoon: Helps in stirring the shredded chicken, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning together until thoroughly combined.
Knife: Necessary for chopping the green onions.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the green onions.
Serving spoon: Used to serve the final dish.
Serving dish: A dish to present the final meal, topped with bacon and green onions.
Bowl: Optional, for mixing the crumbled bacon and green onions before topping the dish.

Storing and Freezing Your Crockpot Chicken Delight

Let the crockpot chicken delight cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and maintain the quality of the dish.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled chicken mixture to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 4 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the crockpot chicken delight:
- Divide the cooled mixture into portion-sized freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing and to save space.
- Crockpot chicken delight can be frozen for up to 3 months.
To reheat frozen crockpot chicken delight:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed mixture to a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Alternatively, reheat the mixture in a saucepan on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through.
Garnish the reheated crockpot chicken delight with fresh crumbled bacon and green onions before serving for the best flavor and texture.

The Best Ways to Reheat Crockpot Chicken Delight

To reheat leftover crockpot chicken delight, start by transferring the desired amount into a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the chicken from drying out during the reheating process. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the chicken is heated through and steaming. The damp paper towel will help keep the chicken moist and tender.
Another option is to reheat the crockpot chicken delight in a skillet on the stovetop. Add a small amount of chicken broth or water to the skillet to prevent sticking and to add moisture back into the dish. Heat the skillet over medium heat and add the leftover chicken. Stir occasionally until the chicken is heated through and the liquid has been absorbed. This method will give the chicken a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the interior moist and flavorful.
For a quick and easy lunch option, transform your leftover crockpot chicken delight into a delicious sandwich. Toast a couple of slices of your favorite bread, then pile on the reheated chicken and top with fresh lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and any other desired toppings. This is a great way to enjoy your leftovers in a new and exciting way.
If you have a large amount of leftover crockpot chicken delight, consider reheating it in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the chicken to an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil to prevent the chicken from drying out and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through. This method is ideal for larger quantities and ensures that the chicken is evenly heated throughout.

Surprising Facts About Crockpot Chicken Delight

A fun fact about this recipe is that the combination of ranch seasoning and cream cheese creates a rich and tangy flavor profile that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.

Crockpot Chicken Delight: Budget-Friendly Home Cooking

The crockpot chicken delight is quite cost-effective for a household. With chicken breasts being a versatile and affordable protein, and ranch seasoning and cream cheese adding flavor without breaking the bank, this dish is both economical and delicious. Topping with crumbled bacon and green onions adds a gourmet touch without significant extra cost. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20 USD.

Is Crockpot Chicken Delight a Healthy Choice?

The crockpot chicken delight recipe, while undeniably tasty, raises some concerns from a nutritional standpoint. The dish heavily relies on high-fat ingredients like cream cheese and bacon, which can contribute to excessive saturated fat intake. Additionally, the ranch seasoning packet likely contains a significant amount of sodium, which may be problematic for those watching their salt intake. However, the recipe does incorporate lean protein in the form of chicken breasts, which is a positive aspect.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Replace the cream cheese with a lower-fat alternative, such as Greek yogurt or light cream cheese
Use a homemade ranch seasoning blend to control the sodium content
Opt for turkey bacon or omit the bacon altogether to reduce the saturated fat
Increase the vegetable content by adding diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the slow cooker
Serve the shredded chicken over a bed of leafy greens or whole grain rice to boost the fiber and nutrient profile of the meal

By implementing these changes, you can transform this indulgent dish into a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your cravings for creamy, flavorful chicken.

Our Editor's Opinion on Crockpot Chicken Delight

This crockpot chicken delight is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for busy days. The combination of ranch seasoning and cream cheese creates a creamy, tangy base that complements the tender chicken beautifully. The addition of crumbled bacon and green onions adds a delightful crunch and freshness, elevating the overall taste. It's an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum comfort and satisfaction.

Enhance Your Crockpot Chicken Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Imagine the crispy, golden exterior of potatoes mingling with the rich, savory notes of garlic and Parmesan cheese. These delightful morsels will add a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor to your Crockpot Chicken Delight.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Honey Glazed Carrots: Picture tender carrots bathed in a luscious honey glaze, with a hint of butter and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This sweet and savory side dish will complement the creamy richness of your main course beautifully.

Cranberry Almond Spinach Salad: Cranberry Almond Spinach Salad: Envision a vibrant mix of fresh spinach, tart cranberries, and crunchy almonds, all tossed in a light vinaigrette. This refreshing salad will provide a delightful contrast to the hearty chicken dish.

Buttery Garlic Green Beans: Buttery Garlic Green Beans: Think of tender green beans sautéed in butter and garlic, with a touch of lemon zest for brightness. These green gems will add a touch of elegance and a burst of fresh flavor to your meal.

Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin: Cheesy Cauliflower Gratin: Visualize cauliflower florets smothered in a creamy cheese sauce, baked to perfection with a golden, bubbly top. This indulgent side dish will harmonize wonderfully with the creamy textures of your Crockpot Chicken Delight.

Delicious Alternatives to Crockpot Chicken Delight

Creamy Ranch Pork Chops: Indulge in the savory goodness of pork chops slow-cooked to perfection with a creamy ranch seasoning sauce. This dish is a delightful twist on the classic chicken version, offering a rich and flavorful experience. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Buffalo Chicken Dip: Transform your love for buffalo wings into a creamy, cheesy dip that's perfect for any gathering. This slow-cooker recipe combines shredded chicken, buffalo sauce, and cream cheese for a spicy, tangy delight. Serve with tortilla chips or celery sticks for dipping.

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff: Experience the classic comfort of beef stroganoff with a slow-cooked twist. Tender beef chunks simmered in a creamy mushroom sauce, served over egg noodles. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner and pairs wonderfully with a side of green beans or a fresh salad.

Cheesy Broccoli Chicken Casserole: Combine the wholesome flavors of broccoli and chicken in a creamy, cheesy casserole that's sure to please. This slow-cooker recipe is easy to prepare and results in a comforting, hearty meal. Top with breadcrumbs for a delightful crunch and serve with a side of garlic bread.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement Your Crockpot Chicken Delight

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful way to start any meal. Imagine cremini mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The mushrooms are baked until golden and bubbly, creating a perfect bite-sized treat. Top them with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a dash of paprika for an extra layer of flavor. These little morsels are sure to impress your guests with their rich and creamy texture.

Bruschetta: Bruschetta is a classic Italian appetizer that never fails to please. Start with slices of toasted baguette brushed with olive oil. Top each slice with a mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a splash of balsamic vinegar. The combination of the crunchy bread and the fresh, tangy topping is a match made in heaven. Finish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of sea salt to elevate the flavors even more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the luxurious Chocolate Lava Cake that oozes with a rich and gooey chocolate center. This decadent dessert is perfect for those who crave a satisfying chocolate fix. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of creamy goodness. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries to elevate the presentation and add a pop of color.

Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake: Delight your taste buds with a refreshing Lemon Blueberry Cheesecake. The tangy lemon flavor perfectly complements the sweetness of juicy blueberries. This creamy and smooth cheesecake is ideal for spring and summer gatherings. Top it with a homemade blueberry sauce and a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant finish. Serve it chilled to enhance the refreshing flavors.

Why trust this Crockpot Chicken Recipe:

This crockpot chicken delight recipe is a must-try for its simplicity and rich flavors. Using just a few ingredients like chicken breasts, ranch seasoning, and cream cheese, it delivers a creamy, savory dish that's perfect for any meal. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken is tender and infused with flavor. Topped with crumbled bacon and green onions, it adds a delightful crunch and freshness. Trust this recipe for its ease and delicious results.

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FAQ:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken thighs. They might even add a bit more flavor and tenderness to the dish.

Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?

Sure, you can. Just simmer everything on low heat until the chicken is cooked through and tender, then shred and mix as directed.

Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cream cheese?

You can, but cream cheese gives it that creamy texture. If you want to experiment, try using a soft cheese like mascarpone or even a blend of shredded cheeses.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be good for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can throw in some veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach. Just add them in during the last hour of cooking so they don't get too mushy.