Crack Chicken Recipe

This Crack Chicken recipe is an easy meal made with juicy chicken breasts loaded with melty cheese, ranch seasoning, and crispy Turkey Bacon. The combination of flavors makes it a delightful dish for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. Plus, it’s low-carb and keto-friendly, making it a great choice for those watching their diet.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With only 30 minutes from prep to plate, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and ranch seasoning creates a rich and addictive taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it on its own or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
• Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly: Ideal for those following low-carb diets without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this creamy chicken dish topped with crispy bacon.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smoother. Having everything ready ensures that you can focus on creating this delicious Crack Chicken recipe.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9×13 baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Essential for cooking the Turkey Bacon and searing the chicken breasts to perfection.
• 9×13 baking dish: Perfectly sized for layering your ingredients and baking everything together.
• Mixing bowl: Needed to combine the cream cheese mixture that adds flavor to the chicken.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 slices thick cut Turkey Bacon (diced)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 4 (1-pound, total) boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ¼-inch thickness)
• salt and fresh ground pepper (to taste)
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika

For the Cream Cheese Mixture

• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon dried dill weed
• ½ teaspoon dried chives

For Topping

• 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese (white or yellow – I use a little of both)
• chopped fresh parsley
• sliced green scallions

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Crack Chicken Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400˚F (200˚C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly when placed inside.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside for later use.

Step 3: Cook the Turkey Bacon

Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced Turkey Bacon and cook until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet but do not discard the fat left behind.

Step 4: Sear the Chicken Breasts

Return the skillet to heat and add vegetable oil to the remaining Turkey Bacon fat. Pound each chicken breast to about ¼-inch thickness and season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Add chicken breasts to the hot oil in batches if necessary. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until golden brown on one side before flipping them over. Add butter at this stage and cook for an additional 2 minutes until browned.

Step 5: Arrange Chicken in Baking Dish

Remove cooked chicken breasts from the skillet. Arrange them in your greased baking dish while setting them aside momentarily.

Step 6: Make Cream Cheese Mixture

In a small mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dill weed, and chives. Mix thoroughly until well combined. Taste for seasoning adjustments if necessary.

Step 7: Assemble Your Dish

Top each chicken breast with approximately two tablespoons of the cream cheese mixture. Ensure it spreads evenly over each piece of chicken.

Next, sprinkle half of the cooked Turkey Bacon over all chicken breasts before adding shredded cheese generously on top.

Step 8: Bake Until Done

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted with a light golden brown color.

Step 9: Final Touches

Once baked, remove from oven. Garnish with remaining Turkey Bacon bits along with fresh parsley and sliced green scallions before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Crack Chicken recipe!

How to Serve Crack Chicken Recipe

Serving your Crack Chicken recipe can be a delightful experience, enhancing the flavors and making it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement this mouthwatering dish.

With Fresh Salads

• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing blend of greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing, croutons, and Parmesan cheese for a classic touch.

On a Bed of Rice or Quinoa

• Steamed White Rice: Fluffy rice that absorbs the delicious juices from the chicken.
• Quinoa: A protein-packed grain that adds a nutty flavor to your meal.

In Tortillas or Buns

• Soft Tortillas: Wrap the Crack Chicken in warm tortillas for a tasty handheld option.
• Slider Buns: Serve as sliders for a fun twist at parties or casual dinners.

Topped with Extra Garnishes

• Sliced Jalapeños: For those who enjoy heat, add fresh jalapeños on top for an extra kick.
• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the richness of the chicken beautifully.

How to Perfect Crack Chicken Recipe

To make your Crack Chicken recipe truly exceptional, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Bold Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the seasonings! Adjust salt and pepper to enhance the dish’s overall flavor.
• Bold Ingredients: Use high-quality cheese and fresh herbs to elevate taste and texture.
• Bold Cooking Technique: Ensure your skillet is hot enough before adding chicken to achieve that golden-brown sear.
• Bold Baking Time: Keep an eye on your chicken while baking; overcooking can dry it out. Aim for juicy perfection!

Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Crack Chicken recipe can enhance its flavor profile and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender brings color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken dish.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is an easy side that pairs well with any savory meal.
5. Green Beans Almondine: Lightly sautéed green beans topped with toasted almonds provide a crunchy element.
6. Creamy Macaroni and Cheese: For a comforting addition, serve this classic alongside your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making this Crack Chicken recipe, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can impact the dish’s outcome. Here are some tips to ensure success.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken breasts for too long can lead to dry meat. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165˚F before removing it from the oven.
• Skipping seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken properly will leave your dish bland. Make sure to season each layer with salt, pepper, and spices for maximum flavor.
• Not using enough cream cheese: Using too little cream cheese can result in a less creamy texture. Stick to the recommended amount for that rich, flavorful coating.
• Ignoring the resting time: Cutting into the chicken right after baking can cause juices to run out, making it less juicy. Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Using low-quality cheese: Low-quality cheese may not melt well and can affect the dish’s overall taste. Opt for good quality shredded cheese for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal flavor and safety.

Freezing Crack Chicken Recipe

• Place cooled Crack Chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Label with the date for reference.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months without losing quality.

Reheating Crack Chicken Recipe

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350˚F, place the chicken in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through (about 15-20 minutes).
• Microwave: Place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth and heat covered until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Crack Chicken Recipe?

Crack Chicken Recipe is a delicious dish made with chicken breasts, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and bacon. It’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly addictive!

Can I customize the Crack Chicken Recipe?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers or swap out cheeses according to your preference.

How do I make this Crack Chicken Recipe low-carb?

This recipe is already low-carb due to its use of chicken breast and cream cheese instead of carbohydrate-heavy ingredients. Just be cautious with any side dishes you serve!

How long does it take to cook Crack Chicken?

The total time for this Crack Chicken recipe takes about 30 minutes, including both prep and cooking time.

Final Thoughts

This Crack Chicken recipe is not only easy to make but also offers great versatility. Its creamy texture combined with savory flavors makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or add-ins! Enjoy this delicious meal that everyone will love!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Crack Chicken

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• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Crack Chicken Recipe is a creamy, savory dish that brings together tender chicken breasts, rich cream cheese, zesty ranch seasoning, and crispy turkey bacon. This delightful meal is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, offering a flavor-packed experience that even picky eaters will love. It’s low-carb and keto-friendly, making it an excellent choice for those mindful of their diet. With just 30 minutes from prep to plate, this versatile dish can be served on its own or alongside your favorite sides. Get ready to indulge in the deliciousness of Crack Chicken!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 4 slices thick cut turkey bacon (diced)
• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (pounded to ¼-inch thickness)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (softened)
• 4 ounces shredded cheddar cheese
• Ranch seasoning mix

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a 9×13 baking dish.
2. Cook diced turkey bacon in a large skillet until crispy; set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sear seasoned chicken breasts until golden brown on each side; remove from heat.
4. Combine softened cream cheese with garlic powder, onion powder, dill weed, and chives in a bowl.
5. Layer chicken in the baking dish, top with cream cheese mixture, sprinkle cooked bacon and shredded cheese over it.
6. Bake uncovered for about 15 minutes until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe (approximately 160g)
• Calories: 360
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 3g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 31g
• Cholesterol: 95mg