Short Description
Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and flavorful ranch seasoning, all cooked together with rice in a slow cooker. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious and satisfying dinner with minimal effort.Spaceships and Laser BeamsEatingWell+1Simply Recipes+1
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Easy Preparation: Simply add the ingredients to your slow cooker and let it do the work.
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Flavorful Combination: The mix of ranch seasoning, cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon creates a rich and savory flavor profile.
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One-Pot Meal: With protein, carbs, and dairy all in one dish, it’s a complete meal that requires minimal cleanup.
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Family Favorite: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
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2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
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1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
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1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
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1½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice
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3 cups chicken broth
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1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
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6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
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¼ cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Directions
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Prepare the Slow Cooker: Spray the insert of a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.Plain Chicken+2Mes Recettes Incroyables+2Spaceships and Laser Beams+2
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Add Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker.The Recipe Critic+4Plain Chicken+4Spaceships and Laser Beams+4
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Add Cream Cheese: Cut the softened cream cheese into cubes and distribute over the chicken.The Recipe Critic
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Mix Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, ranch seasoning mix, uncooked rice, and chicken broth. Stir until well mixed.
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Combine in Slow Cooker: Pour the mixture over the chicken and cream cheese in the slow cooker.
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Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
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Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts, shred them using two forks, and return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.Spaceships and Laser Beams
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Add Cheese and Bacon: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Mix until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions if desired. Serve warm.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 6
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Preparation Time: 10 minutesGoogle Cloud Storage+11Spaceships and Laser Beams+11The Magical Slow Cooker+11
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Cooking Time: 4–5 hours on low
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Total Time: Approximately 5 hours
Variations
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Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
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Vegetable Addition: Include frozen peas, carrots, or broccoli florets for added nutrition.
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Different Cheeses: Try using Colby-Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor profile.Spaceships and Laser Beams
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Alternative Meats: Substitute chicken with turkey or ham for a different twist.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Freezing: Allow the dish to cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to maintain creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid, which may not be suitable for this recipe. It’s recommended to use long-grain white rice for best results.
Can I cook this recipe on high?
Yes, you can cook on high for 2–3 hours, but cooking on low ensures more tender chicken and better flavor development.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used and will result in a richer flavor.
Is it necessary to cook the bacon before adding it?
Yes, cooking the bacon beforehand ensures it is crispy and adds the desired texture to the dish.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, place everything in the slow cooker and start cooking.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread.
Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?
Yes, homemade ranch seasoning can be used as a substitute for the packet.
Print
Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice
- Total Time: 7 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful comfort food dish loaded with tender chicken, ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. A family favorite that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights!
Ingredients
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2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
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1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
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1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
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1 1/2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
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3 cups chicken broth
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1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
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1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Assemble in Slow Cooker: Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the slow cooker. Top with cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, and ranch seasoning.
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Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
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Shred Chicken: Remove chicken from the slow cooker, shred it using two forks, and return it to the pot.
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Add Rice & Broth: Stir in uncooked rice and chicken broth. Cover and cook on high for another 45–60 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
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Finish with Cheese & Bacon: Stir in cheddar cheese and half of the crumbled bacon. Let it melt for a few minutes before serving.
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Serve: Top with remaining bacon and green onions for garnish, if desired.
Notes
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Stir occasionally after adding rice to prevent sticking.
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Use precooked or instant rice for quicker results (adjust liquid accordingly).
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Add frozen peas or broccoli at the end for a veggie boost.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American