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Easy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken Recipe
Ben Carraoli

Easy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken Recipe

I made this Easy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken Recipe the other night, and I can’t stop thinking about it! It’s one of those recipes that’s super simple but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. It’s creamy, spicy, cheesy, and the smoky bacon adds just the right touch.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts: Tender and lean protein base—avoid pre-frozen ones for better texture.
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened: This adds the rich, creamy base. Let it soften at room temperature.
  • 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese: Spicy melty, and perfectly flavorful. Always shred fresh for best melt.
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix about 1 oz: Adds herby tang and balances the heat.
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon crumbled (about 6 slices): Crispy, smoky bites that make this dish irresistible.
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth optional: Keeps the chicken moist during slow cooking.
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds aromatic depth.
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the savory flavor.
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For just a hint of spice.
  • 1/4 cup green onions chopped: Fresh and bright garnish.

Method
 

  1. For the slow cooker, place your chicken breasts inside the bowl. Sprinkle ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper on top. If you want it extra moist, pour in half a cup of chicken broth.
  2. For the stovetop, cook the chicken breasts in a heated skillet for about 6-7 minutes per side. Once fully cooked, remove and set them aside.
  3. For slow cooking, place dollops of softened cream cheese directly over the seasoned chicken. Let the heat work its magic. On the stove, after removing the chicken, toss the cream cheese into the skillet. Add in ranch mix and spices and stir until smooth.
  4. For slow cooker, cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours. Once done, shred the chicken using two forks right in the pot and stir it into the cheesy mixture.
  5. If you’re on the stove, after your sauce is ready, shred the chicken and return it to the skillet.
  6. Time for the best part! Add in your shredded pepper jack cheese and crumbled bacon. Stir until the cheese melts and everything is coated in gooey goodness.
  7. Scoop into your favorite dish and sprinkle chopped green onions on top. Trust me, this adds the perfect fresh bite to all that richness.