Easy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken Recipe

Introduction

This Easy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken recipe is a creamy, cheesy dish packed with bold flavors and tender chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights, it can be made in a slow cooker or on the stovetop. The combination of pepper jack cheese, bacon, and ranch seasoning makes it irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
• 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6 slices)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for slow cooker)
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the chicken by placing the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Sprinkle ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper evenly over the top. Add chicken broth if using to help prevent sticking and keep the chicken moist.
2. Step 2: Dollop the softened cream cheese over the chicken breasts.
3. Step 3: 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. Step 4: Remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the cream cheese mixture.
5. Step 5: Stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese and crumbled bacon until everything is well combined and the cheese has melted.
6. Step 6: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
7. Alternative Stovetop Method – Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and browned. Remove and shred the chicken.
8. Alternative Stovetop Method – Step 2: In the same skillet, add softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir until the cream cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
9. Alternative Stovetop Method – Step 3: Stir in shredded chicken, pepper jack cheese, and crumbled bacon. Mix until the cheese melts and the ingredients are combined.
10. Alternative Stovetop Method – Step 4: Garnish with green onions and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• Use smoked bacon for a deeper, smoky flavor that complements the pepper jack cheese.
• Serve over rice, in sandwiches, or stuffed into baked potatoes for variety.
• For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra jalapeños.
• If you prefer a milder dish, substitute pepper jack with Monterey Jack or mild cheddar.

Storage

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through to maintain the creamy texture. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this dish without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can use the stovetop method outlined in the instructions for a quicker version. It’s just as flavorful and works well if you’re short on time.

Is it necessary to use ranch seasoning mix?

Ranch seasoning adds a signature tangy flavor, but you can substitute with your favorite seasoning blend or homemade ranch seasoning if preferred.

Easy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 84 reviews

• Author: Andria
• Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes (slow cooker) or 30 minutes (stovetop)
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Easy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken recipe features tender shredded chicken breasts combined with creamy pepper jack cheese, cream cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfectly seasoned with ranch seasoning and spices, this dish can be prepared in a slow cooker for convenience or on the stovetop for quick results. Garnished with fresh green onions, it’s a flavorful and comforting meal ideal for dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Dairy & Cheese

• 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)
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper over the chicken. Add the chicken broth if using to prevent sticking and keep the meat moist.
2. Add Cream Cheese: Dollop the softened cream cheese over the chicken breasts, distributing it evenly to ensure creaminess during cooking.
3. Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and mix with the cream cheese and juices for enhanced flavor and moisture.
5. Add Cheese and Bacon: Stir in the shredded pepper jack cheese and crumbled bacon until everything is well combined and the cheese has fully melted into the mixture.
6. Serve: Garnish the hot chicken mixture with chopped green onions and serve immediately to enjoy a flavorful and creamy meal.
7. Stovetop Method – Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and browned. Remove them from the skillet and shred with two forks.
8. Stovetop Method – Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
9. Stovetop Method – Combine and Melt: Return shredded chicken to the skillet and stir in pepper jack cheese and crumbled bacon. Mix well until the cheese has melted and coated the chicken evenly.
10. Stovetop Method – Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot for a deliciously cheesy and savory dish.

Notes

• The slow cooker method is ideal for hands-off cooking and tender chicken.
• You can omit chicken broth if you prefer a thicker texture in the slow cooker.
• For extra spice, add crushed red pepper flakes along with the seasoning.
• Use freshly chopped green onions for the best garnish flavor.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stove or microwave.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4 to 5 hours (slow cooker) or 15-20 minutes (stovetop)
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Pepper jack chicken, crack chicken recipe, creamy chicken, slow cooker chicken, stovetop chicken, cheese and bacon chicken