Anything that is called “crack” must be delicious, right? We have Christmas crack, cabbage crack, crack pie, and many other so-named recipes, but I think you’ll find that creamy crack chicken is the best of them all! If you don’t love the name crack chicken, you can also call this recipe cheddar ranch chicken, or you can simply call it the most delicious and addicting Instant Pot Chicken recipe out there. You won’t be able to get enough of this tender pulled chicken in a creamy, cheesy ranch sauce topped with salty bacon and savory green onion. I have so many Instant Pot Recipes here for you to try! Start with Instant Pot Butter Chicken, it’s a reader favorite. Then be sure to check out Instant Pot Meatloaf and Instant Pot Pulled Pork for your next easy and delicious dinner idea.
Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Recipe
Ingredients In Crack Chicken
The best Instant Pot Crack Chicken only needs a handful of ingredients to make the most amazingly flavorful dish! Complete list of ingredients and amounts can be found in the recipe card below.
Chicken: Two or three large chicken breasts or about 2 pounds of meat are needed for this recipe. Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese to make crack chicken. Low fat won’t taste as good, and it won’t be as luscious and creamy. Broth: The pressure cooker won’t work without liquid added to the pot. Choose low-sodium chicken broth for this recipe since we’re adding salty ranch to the mix. Ranch Seasoning: Hidden Valley ranch seasoning mix, or my homemade version (try it, it will save you money!) gives crack chicken its irresistible flavor. Bacon and Cheddar: I add cheese and bacon to instant pot crack chicken just before serving. This way the bacon stays crispy and the cheese doesn’t melt into the sauce right away. You’ll also need some salt and pepper, and chopped green onions for a tasty garnish.
How To Make Instant Pot Crack Chicken
Recipe Tips
Instead of chicken breasts, use the same amount of chicken thighs. Grate your own cheese. Bagged shredded cheese is convenient, but it also contains additives that make it less tasty and can add carbs if you’re watching that. Buy a block of cheddar cheese instead, and shred it using a box grater. Homemade ranch seasoning is delicious and much cheaper in the long run than buying packets of seasoning at the store. Burn Message? There shouldn’t be an issue, but if your IP gives you a “burn” warning, add a bit more water until it stops. This recipe was tested in a 6-quart instant pot. If you are using a larger one, you will need to add more liquid to equal 1 cup in total. To Make Crockpot Crack Chicken: Cook the chicken with seasonings and broth for 4-6 hours on low. Shred the chicken, and stir in the cream cheese after the time is up. Chicken is fully cooked when it measures 165°F/74°C using an instant read thermometer. If for some reason your chicken isn’t fully cooked (but it’s close) after you’ve released the pressure from the pot, close the lid and let it sit for 5 minutes to finish cooking.
Storing Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To freeze, let the crack chicken cool down, then transfer it to freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months.
What To Serve With Crack Chicken
My family loves it when I serve Crack Chicken sandwiches! Toast some sandwich bread, or pile the shredded chicken onto hamburger buns. You could also make crack chicken sliders with small rolls. Want to include some veggies with your dinner tonight? Serve simple steamed or blanched broccoli or cauliflower – the sauce from the chicken is delicious on veggies. I also enjoy this meal with a simple side salad. I can’t wait for you to try this easy recipe for Instant Pot Crack Chicken! It’s ready in under 45 minutes, and your family is going to devour every drop of this chicken with bacon and ranch in a creamy sauce. © Little Sunny Kitchen
