how long to cook crockpot crack chicken on high

Crockpot crack chicken is a mouthwatering dish that is easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights. This creamy and savory chicken dish is made with tender chicken breasts, cream cheese, and a blend of tangy ranch seasoning and crispy bacon bits. The best part? It's made in a slow cooker, so it's a set-it-and-forget-it kind of meal. In this article, we'll be discussing the ins and outs of cooking crockpot crack chicken on high and answering all your questions so that you can make this delicious meal with ease.

Ingredients needed for crockpot crack chicken

Before cooking, it's important to have all the ingredients needed for the recipe. To make crockpot crack chicken, you'll need:

• 4-5 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 packet of ranch seasoning
• 6 slices of cooked and crumbled bacon
• 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
• Green onions for garnish (optional)

Crockpot crack chicken is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. The recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can add some diced jalapenos or hot sauce to give the dish a spicy kick. You can also substitute the cheddar cheese with pepper jack cheese for a different flavor. Additionally, you can serve the chicken on a bed of rice or with some roasted vegetables to make it a complete meal.

Preparing the chicken for the crockpot

Before you start cooking, it's important to prepare your chicken properly. Make sure to trim any excess fat, and season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. You can also cut them into smaller pieces if you prefer. Place the chicken in the slow cooker, making sure that they are in a single layer and not overlapping.

Additionally, you can add some chopped onions, garlic, and herbs to the chicken for extra flavor. You can also pour in some chicken broth or water to keep the chicken moist while it cooks. Once you have added all the ingredients, cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. When the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to ensure that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F before serving.

Setting up the crockpot for cooking

Once the chicken is in the slow cooker, add the cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and bacon to the pot. Cover the slow cooker with a lid and cook on high for 3-4 hours, or on low for 6-8 hours. It's important to remember that cooking times may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check the chicken for doneness periodically during the cooking process.

Another important tip for setting up the crockpot for cooking is to make sure that the chicken is fully thawed before placing it in the slow cooker. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly. Additionally, you can add some vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and onions to the pot to make a complete meal. Simply chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them to the slow cooker along with the chicken and other ingredients. This will save you time and effort in preparing a separate side dish.

How long to cook crockpot crack chicken on high vs low

The cooking time of crockpot crack chicken will vary depending on the setting that you choose. If you are cooking on high, the chicken should be fully cooked in 3-4 hours. If you are cooking on low, it will take 6-8 hours for the chicken to be fully cooked. Make sure to periodically check the chicken for doneness during the cooking process.

Checking for doneness: How to know when the chicken is fully cooked

It's important to ensure that your chicken is fully cooked before serving to avoid any foodborne illnesses. To check if your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C). If you don't have a meat thermometer, check that the chicken is no longer pink and the juices run clear when cut.

Tips for making your crockpot crack chicken more flavorful

If you're looking to add some additional flavor to your crockpot crack chicken, try adding in some extra spices such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika. You can also add in some diced veggies such as bell peppers or onions to bulk up the dish and add some extra nutrition.

Serving suggestions and meal ideas for crockpot crack chicken

Crockpot crack chicken can be served on its own or with a side dish. You can serve it with rice, pasta, or a side salad. You can also use it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. Another option is to top it with diced avocado, sliced jalapeños, or extra bacon bits for an extra burst of flavor.

Storing and reheating leftovers of crockpot crack chicken

If you have leftovers of crockpot crack chicken, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply microwave the leftovers or reheat in a pan over medium heat. You may need to add in some extra liquid, such as chicken broth, to keep the chicken moist during the reheating process.

Frequently asked questions about cooking crack chicken in a crockpot

• Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts for crockpot crack chicken. However, be aware that cooking times will be longer. It's recommended to thaw the chicken before cooking for the best results.

• Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, you can use low-fat cream cheese instead of regular cream cheese. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor of the dish may be slightly different.

• Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe to feed a larger crowd. However, make sure that your slow cooker is big enough to accommodate the additional ingredients.

With these tips and tricks, you're sure to make a delicious and perfect crockpot crack chicken meal on high. Don't be afraid to experiment with additional flavors or to pair it with your favorite side dishes. Bon appetit!