Irresistible Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice

Welcome to a cozy and mouthwatering recipe for Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Rice! When life gets busy and you need a comforting meal that’s both easy and delicious, this creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying dish is here to save the day. Kids adore it, picky eaters devour it, and it has a magical way of disappearing within minutes at gatherings.

Picture this: the irresistible aroma of crispy bacon, cream cheese, and ranch flavors wafting through your home as this dish simmers away in your slow cooker. It’s a symphony of flavors that evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. And the best part? It’s a one-pot wonder that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste and satisfaction.

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a hearty and creamy meal, Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Rice is a versatile dish that never fails to impress. With simple swaps and customization options, you can make it your own while keeping the essence of this beloved recipe intact. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and get ready to savor every spoonful of this irresistible comfort food!

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and filling dish with a cheesy ranch flavor that appeals to both kids and adults
• Versatile recipe that allows for customization with additional ingredients like extra veggies, different types of rice, or alternative creamy options
• Easy to store and reheat, making it a convenient meal prep option for busy days
• Can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of sides for a well-rounded meal

Why You’ll Love This Irresistible Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice Recipe

• Creamy, Cheesy, and Filling: This recipe offers a rich and satisfying combination of cream cheese, cheddar, and chicken soup that creates a creamy and cheesy texture loved by all.
• Kid-Friendly and Picky Eater Approved: Even picky eaters will love this dish with its familiar flavors and comforting appeal. Kids enjoy the creamy and cheesy ranch vibe.
• Addictive Flavor: The bacon adds a delicious crunch and smoky flavor that enhances the dish, making it a crowd favorite and a must-have for gatherings.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily customize this recipe to suit your preferences by adding extra crunchy bacon, green onions for freshness, or additional veggies like peas or broccoli.
• Make-ahead and Meal Prep Friendly: You can store leftovers in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze for later. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth for a quick and convenient meal.
• Family Comfort Food: Reminiscent of classic American casseroles, this dish evokes feelings of home-cooked meals and family gatherings, making it a comforting addition to your meal rotation.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and a slow cooker, this recipe is straightforward and perfect for busy days when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Irresistible Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice

Main Ingredients

• 720 ml chicken stock
• 270 g long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 300 g cream cheese, at room temp
• 170 g cheddar, grated
• 320 ml creamy chicken soup
• 6 slices crispy bacon, crumbled up
• 900 g skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 28 g ranch-flavored seasoning mix

Garnish

• 60 ml chopped green onions (can skip if you want)

Pro Tips for Irresistible Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice

Pro Tip 1: For juicier chicken, consider using chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. You can also toss in some frozen peas or broccoli near the end of cooking for extra veggies and flavor. If you prefer brown rice, adjust the cooking time and add a bit more broth to ensure it cooks properly in the slow cooker.

Pro Tip 2: To lighten up the dish, consider swapping cream cheese for Neufchâtel or blending Greek yogurt with milk for a lighter alternative. If you’re a fan of extra crispy bacon, cook it separately, crumble it, and add it right at the end to keep it crunchy. Make sure to stir the ingredients while cooking to ensure the rice stays soft and creamy.

Pro Tip 3: Leftovers of this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for three to four days. When reheating, warm up single portions in the microwave or reheat a larger batch on the stove with a splash of broth for added creaminess. If freezing, allow the dish to cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

How to Make Irresistible Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice

Step 1: Serve and Finish

Divide the mixture onto plates and garnish with green onions, if desired.

Step 2: Mix in Cheese and Bacon

Add the grated cheddar and bacon pieces, stir until the cheese melts.

Step 3: Cook Rice

Increase the heat to high and cook for 30-45 minutes until the rice is completely soft, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Add Rice and Broth

Combine the dry rice with the chicken broth and stir well to mix thoroughly.

Step 5: Shred and Return Chicken

Remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.

Step 6: Cook Chicken

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender.

Step 7: Layer Everything

Arrange chicken breasts in a single layer in the bottom of the dish. Spread soft cream cheese over the chicken, then sprinkle ranch powder on top. Pour in the creamy chicken soup.

Step 8: Get Cooker Ready

Coat the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray.

Storage Tips

To store the Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Rice, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for three to four days. When reheating, you can warm up single portions in the microwave or reheat a larger batch on the stove with a splash of broth to maintain its creamy texture. If you plan to freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. For best results, thaw the frozen meal in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

For variations on the recipe, consider using chicken thighs for juicier meat or adding frozen peas or broccoli for extra vegetables. You can also substitute brown rice, but be prepared to adjust the cooking time and add more broth as needed. To make the dish gluten-free, opt for gluten-free cream soups and ranch packets. Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Rice pairs well with a cold green salad, steamed veggies, or as a filling for wraps. Experiment with different toppings like tomatoes or avocado for added flavor and variety.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version of this dish, you can substitute Neufchâtel cheese for cream cheese or blend Greek yogurt with a bit of milk to achieve a similar creamy texture. These swaps can help reduce the overall fat content while still maintaining a deliciously creamy consistency.

If you prefer a different protein, you can use skinless, boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier result. Additionally, if you want to add more vegetables to the dish, consider tossing in frozen peas or broccoli near the end of the cooking time for added nutritional value and color.

To cater to dietary restrictions, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by opting for gluten-free cream soups and ranch seasoning packets. If you prefer a different type of rice, you can use brown rice instead of white rice, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and add a bit more broth as needed to ensure the rice cooks properly.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try turning this Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Rice into a delicious Tex-Mex inspired bowl by topping it with sliced avocado, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream. The creamy and cheesy flavors of the dish will pair perfectly with the freshness of the avocado and the tanginess of the tomatoes, adding a burst of flavor and texture to each bite.

Another fun idea is to use this crack chicken and rice mixture as a filling for burritos or tacos. Simply scoop some onto a warm tortilla, add your favorite toppings like shredded lettuce, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime juice, then wrap it up for a satisfying and portable meal. The creamy chicken and rice filling will add a comforting and flavorful twist to your usual taco night!

FAQs for Irresistible Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice

Can I use a substitute for cream cheese to make this dish lighter?

Yes, you can try using Neufchâtel for a similar creamy texture or blend Greek yogurt with some milk for a lighter alternative.

How should I store leftovers of slow cooker crack chicken and rice?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three to four days. Reheat single servings in the microwave or reheat a larger batch on the stove with a splash of broth for added creaminess.

Can I freeze slow cooker crack chicken and rice?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Let it cool completely, store it in a freezer-safe container, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free cream soups and ranch seasoning packets as substitutes. This simple modification allows you to enjoy the dish without gluten-containing ingredients.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Rice is truly a versatile and comforting dish that never fails to please a crowd. The creamy, cheesy, and flavorful combination of ingredients creates a dish that is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a casual get-together, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.

Don’t be afraid to personalize this Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Rice to suit your tastes. Add extra veggies, swap in different types of rice, or experiment with alternative creamy ingredients. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability, allowing you to make it your own while still enjoying that irresistible creamy ranch goodness.

So go ahead, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and let the magic happen. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Rice is bound to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen as this comforting dish cooks to perfection, ready to be enjoyed by all. Happy cooking!