Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Easy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 60 reviews
  • Author: Marina
  • Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes (slow cooker) or 25 minutes (stovetop)
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Easy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken recipe features tender shredded chicken cooked with creamy cheese, ranch seasoning, and bacon for a flavorful, comforting dish. Perfect for slow cooker or stovetop preparation, it’s packed with spicy, smoky flavors from pepper jack cheese and bacon, garnished with fresh green onions for an extra burst of color and freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Cheese and Dairy

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese

Seasonings

  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Additional Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6 slices)
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for slow cooker method)
  • 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken (Slow Cooker Method): Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Sprinkle ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper over the chicken. Add chicken broth if using to prevent sticking and keep the chicken moist.
  2. Add Cream Cheese (Slow Cooker Method): Dollop the softened cream cheese evenly over the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
  3. Cook the Chicken (Slow Cooker Method): Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C).
  4. Shred the Chicken (Slow Cooker Method): Remove the cooked chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the cream cheese mixture.
  5. Add Cheese and Bacon (Slow Cooker Method): Stir in shredded pepper jack cheese and crumbled bacon until the cheese melts and everything is well combined.
  6. Serve (Slow Cooker Method): Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
  7. Cook the Chicken (Stovetop Method): Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and browned. Remove from skillet and shred.
  8. Prepare the Sauce (Stovetop Method): In the same skillet, add softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
  9. Combine and Melt (Stovetop Method): Stir in shredded chicken, pepper jack cheese, and crumbled bacon. Mix well until the cheese has melted completely.
  10. Serve (Stovetop Method): Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Notes

  • You can omit the chicken broth if you prefer a thicker sauce when using the slow cooker.
  • Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  • Leftover chicken can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Serve with tortilla chips, over rice, or in sandwiches for versatile meal options.
  • Adjust the spice level by choosing a milder or hotter cheese variant if desired.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4-5 hours (slow cooker low) or 12-14 minutes (stovetop)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Pepper Jack Crack Chicken, Slow Cooker Chicken, Cream Cheese Chicken, Easy Chicken Dinner, Bacon Chicken Recipe

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://marinamontclair.com/easy-pepper-jack-crack-chicken-recipe/