Easy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken
Easy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken: creamy shredded chicken with pepper jack cheese, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and crispy bacon. Make it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop for the perfect comforting dinner!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix 1 oz
- ½ cup cooked bacon crumbled (about 6 slices)
- ½ cup chicken broth optional, for slow cooker
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
Slow Cooker Method
Prepare the Chicken:
- Add chicken breasts to the slow cooker. Sprinkle ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper on top. Add chicken broth if using.
Add Cream Cheese:
- Place dollops of softened cream cheese over the chicken.
Cook:
- Cover and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until chicken reaches 165°F.
Shred the Chicken:
- Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
Add Cheese and Bacon:
- Mix in shredded pepper jack cheese and crumbled bacon until melted and fully incorporated.
Serve:
- Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
- Stovetop Method
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, or until browned and fully cooked. Remove and shred.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
Combine Everything:
- Add shredded chicken, pepper jack cheese, and bacon. Stir until cheese is melted.
Serve:
- Garnish with green onions and enjoy warm.
Notes
Boost the Heat: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes.
Use Different Cheeses: Monterey Jack, cheddar, or mozzarella work well too.
Make It a Meal: Serve over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or stuffed in baked potatoes.
Storage
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes—thighs stay extra juicy and work perfectly here. Is this recipe spicy?
Pepper jack adds mild heat. For a spicier version, add jalapeños or use hot pepper cheese. Can I make this keto or low-carb?
Yes! Serve it over cauliflower rice or sautéed veggies.
Yes—thighs stay extra juicy and work perfectly here. Is this recipe spicy?
Pepper jack adds mild heat. For a spicier version, add jalapeños or use hot pepper cheese. Can I make this keto or low-carb?
Yes! Serve it over cauliflower rice or sautéed veggies.