Keto Crack Chicken is a savory, creamy dish that has gained popularity among those following a ketogenic diet. This dish features tender chicken cooked with a rich blend of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, all seasoned with ranch flavoring. The result is a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and keto-friendly.
The dish typically involves slow-cooking or baking chicken breasts or thighs with cream cheese and ranch seasoning. Once cooked, the chicken is shredded and mixed with melted cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, creating a creamy, cheesy, and delicious mixture. It’s often served over low-carb sides like cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps, making it a versatile choice for various meal plans.
The name “Crack Chicken” reflects the dish’s addictive quality—similar to the way crack cocaine is described as highly addictive. The term is used to highlight how irresistibly delicious the combination of creamy cheese, bacon, and ranch seasoning can be. It’s not an indication of anything illegal but rather a fun, tongue-in-cheek way to describe the dish’s flavor.
Keto Crack Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- Chicken Breasts or Thighs (4 boneless, skinless)
- Quantity: About 2 pounds
- Details: Chicken breasts are lean and cook quickly, while thighs add more flavor and remain moist. Choose according to preference or availability.
- Cream Cheese (8 ounces)
- Quantity: 1 block (approximately 1 cup)
- Details: Cream cheese adds creaminess and richness to the dish. Ensure it’s softened for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup)
- Quantity: 1 cup
- Details: Provides a sharp, tangy flavor that complements the creamy base. You can use sharp or mild cheddar based on your taste preference.
- Bacon (6-8 slices)
- Quantity: 6-8 slices
- Details: Adds a crispy texture and smoky flavor. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble into small pieces to mix into the dish.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix (1 packet)
- Quantity: 1 packet (about 1 ounce) or 2 tablespoons of homemade ranch seasoning
- Details: The ranch seasoning adds a savory, herby flavor to the chicken. You can use store-bought packets or make your own blend with dried herbs and spices.
- Chopped Green Onions (1/4 cup, optional)
- Quantity: 1/4 cup
- Details: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor and a pop of color. Use as a garnish or mix into the dish for added flavor.
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Quantity: To taste
- Details: Adjust according to your preference. Salt enhances the overall flavor, while pepper adds a bit of spice.
Optional Add-ins:
- Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon)
- Quantity: 1 teaspoon
- Details: Adds an extra layer of flavor if desired.
- Fresh Herbs (like parsley or dill, for garnish)
- Quantity: A few sprigs, finely chopped
- Details: Adds freshness and a burst of color. Optional for garnishing the finished dish.
These ingredients combine to create a rich, satisfying meal that fits perfectly into a keto diet, providing a hearty and flavorful option that’s both easy to make and delicious.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and the ranch seasoning mix. Ensure each piece is evenly coated.
- Choose Your Cooking Method:
- Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Top it with the block of cream cheese, cutting it into smaller chunks for easier melting.
- Oven-Baked: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned chicken in a large oven-safe baking dish and top it with the cream cheese.
- Instant Pot: If using an Instant Pot, place the seasoned chicken in the pot with the cream cheese on top.
Step 2: Cook and Shred the Chicken
- Slow Cooker: Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.
- Oven-Baked: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Instant Pot: Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the slow cooker, baking dish, or Instant Pot. Stir the chicken, cream cheese, and any juices together until well combined.
Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches
- Add Cheddar Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and blends with the chicken mixture.
- Cook the Bacon: While the chicken is cooking, cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once done, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- Mix in Bacon and Garnish: Stir the crumbled bacon into the chicken mixture. If desired, sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh herbs on top for added flavor and color.
- Serve: Serve your Keto Crack Chicken hot, either on its own or over a keto-friendly side like cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or steamed vegetables.
Once served, Keto Crack Chicken is ready to be enjoyed hot and fresh. The creamy, cheesy goodness paired with the crispy bacon offers a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Whether served over cauliflower rice, in lettuce wraps, or alongside your favorite low-carb vegetables, this dish is sure to be a hit. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days, or freeze for future meals. Enjoy the rich, satisfying taste of this keto favorite any time!
Keto Crack Chicken is a delicious and comforting dish designed for those following a ketogenic diet. Combining tender chicken breasts or thighs with creamy cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon, this dish delivers a rich and satisfying flavor profile. The addition of ranch seasoning enhances its taste with a savory, herby kick, making it an irresistible option for anyone craving a low-carb, high-fat meal. Whether cooked in a slow cooker, oven, or Instant Pot, Keto Crack Chicken is known for its ease of preparation and versatility.
The dish’s popularity in the keto community stems from its ability to meet dietary needs while still being flavorful and filling. With minimal carbohydrates and a generous amount of fats and proteins, it aligns perfectly with ketogenic dietary principles. Keto Crack Chicken can be enjoyed in various ways, such as over cauliflower rice, in lettuce wraps, or alongside low-carb vegetables, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Its rich, creamy texture and savory taste ensure that it remains a go-to recipe for keto enthusiasts looking for a satisfying and convenient option.
Keto Crack Chicken Nutrition Info
Keto Crack Chicken is a flavorful and satisfying dish ideal for those following a ketogenic diet. It combines creamy cream cheese, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon with tender chicken, creating a rich, high-fat meal with minimal carbohydrates. Below is a nutritional breakdown of the dish based on approximately 6 servings.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
Total (6 Servings)
|
| Calories | 425-440 kcal |
2,550-2,650 kcal
|
| Total Fat | 32-35 g | 192-210 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15-18 g | 90-108 g |
| Cholesterol | 140-160 mg | 840-960 mg |
| Sodium | 800-900 mg | 4,800-5,400 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4-6 g | 24-36 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0-1 g | 0-6 g |
| Sugars | 2-3 g | 12-18 g |
| Protein | 30-35 g | 180-210 g |
This table provides a general estimate. For precise nutritional information, use exact ingredient measurements and a nutrition calculator.
Here’s a consolidated nutrition table for each ingredient used in Keto Crack Chicken:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories | Total Fat | Saturated Fat | Cholesterol | Sodium | Total Carbohydrates | Dietary Fiber | Sugars | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breasts | 1 pound (16 oz) | 500 kcal | 8 g | 2 g | 180 mg | 200 mg | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 96 g |
| Cream Cheese | 8 oz (1 block) | 800 kcal | 80 g | 50 g | 260 mg | 640 mg | 8 g | 0 g | 8 g | 16 g |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup (4 oz) | 400 kcal | 33 g | 21 g | 100 mg | 160 mg | 1 g | 0 g | 1 g | 28 g |
| Bacon | 6 slices | 300 kcal | 24 g | 9 g | 60 mg | 540 mg | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g | 21 g |
| Ranch Seasoning Mix | 1 packet (1 oz) | 50 kcal | 1 g | 0.5 g | 0 mg | 1,200 mg | 11 g | 0 g | 2 g | 1 g |
| Chopped Green Onions | 1/4 cup | 5 kcal | 0 g | 0 g | 0 mg | 1 mg | 1 g | 0 g | 0 g | 0 g |
This table provides a detailed breakdown of the nutritional content for each ingredient used in Keto Crack Chicken, based on typical amounts and standard nutritional data.
Tips for Best Results
- Choose the Right Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken thighs if you prefer a more flavorful and moist result. Chicken breasts are also suitable but may be slightly drier.
- Soften Cream Cheese: Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before cooking to achieve a smooth, creamy texture. Leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes or microwave it briefly.
- Cook Bacon Crisply: Cook bacon until it is crispy for the best texture and flavor. Crumble it into small pieces before adding it to the dish to ensure even distribution.
- Season to Taste: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Depending on the ranch seasoning mix used, you might need to add additional salt or pepper.
- Shred Chicken Well: After cooking, shred the chicken thoroughly to mix well with the cream cheese and other ingredients. This ensures every bite is evenly flavored.
- Avoid Overcooking: Be cautious not to overcook the chicken, especially in the oven or Instant Pot. Overcooking can lead to dry chicken, so monitor cooking times closely.
- Customize Add-ins: Feel free to add extra ingredients like garlic powder, diced jalapeños, or additional herbs for a personalized flavor boost.
- Serve Fresh: Enjoy the dish hot for the best texture and flavor. It can be served over cauliflower rice, in lettuce wraps, or alongside your favorite low-carb vegetables.
- Store Properly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Top with chopped green onions, fresh herbs, or additional bacon crumbles for added flavor and presentation.
Keto Crack Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- Slow Cooker or Instant Pot (or a large oven-safe baking dish) - Depending on your preferred cooking method.
- Mixing bowl For combining ingredients like ranch seasoning and cream cheese.
- Skillet or frying pan For cooking the bacon until crispy.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon For stirring and mixing the ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons To accurately measure out the ingredients.
- Cutting board and knife For chopping bacon, green onions, or any additional garnishes.
- Tongs For handling the chicken when transferring it to and from the cooker or dish.
- Serving Spoon - To serve the finished dish.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (about 2 pounds)
- 8 ounces cream cheese (1 block)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6-8 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill, for garnish)
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning; place in a slow cooker, baking dish, or Instant Pot, topped with cream cheese.
- Cook chicken until tender—4-6 hours on low (slow cooker), 25-30 minutes at 375°F (oven), or 15 minutes on high pressure (Instant Pot).
- Shred the chicken and mix with melted cream cheese.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled cooked bacon.
- Garnish with green onions or herbs and serve hot.
Notes
- Chicken Cut: For best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs tend to be more flavorful and stay moist during cooking.
- Cream Cheese Consistency: Ensure the cream cheese is softened for easier mixing and to achieve a creamy texture.
-
Cooking Times: Adjust cooking times based on the method used:
- Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- Instant Pot: Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes with a natural pressure release.
- Shredding Chicken: Use two forks to shred the chicken thoroughly and mix it well with the cream cheese and other ingredients for a uniform consistency.
- Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy to ensure it adds the right texture and flavor to the dish. Crumble it into small pieces before mixing it in.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Depending on your ranch seasoning mix, you might need to add extra salt or pepper.
- Garnishes: Adding green onions or fresh herbs is optional but enhances flavor and presentation.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. The dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve over cauliflower rice, in lettuce wraps, or with low-carb vegetables to keep the meal keto-friendly.
Delicious Topping Ideas
- Chopped Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions add a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the creamy base of the dish.
- Crispy Bacon Crumbles: Extra crumbles of crispy bacon can enhance the dish’s savory, smoky flavor and add a satisfying crunch.
- Shredded Cheese: A sprinkle of additional shredded cheddar cheese or a mix of your favorite cheeses can boost the dish’s cheesy goodness and melt beautifully on top.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro for a burst of freshness and added visual appeal.
- Sliced Jalapeños: For a spicy kick, top with sliced fresh jalapeños or pickled jalapeños, adding both heat and a tangy flavor.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top can provide a cool, tangy contrast to the rich, creamy dish.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices or cubes add a rich, buttery texture that pairs well with the flavors of Keto Crack Chicken.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add a juicy, sweet pop that balances the savory richness of the dish.
- Olives: Sliced black or green olives can introduce a briny, savory element that complements the overall flavor profile.
- Lettuce or Spinach: For added crunch and a fresh contrast, top with shredded lettuce or fresh spinach leaves.
These toppings can be mixed and matched to suit your taste preferences and create a customized, delicious experience with every serving.
FAQ
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts in Keto Crack Chicken. Chicken thighs offer a richer flavor and tend to remain more moist and tender compared to chicken breasts, making them a great alternative. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through than breasts. Whether using thighs or breasts, the end result will still be delicious and flavorful.
Can I make Keto Crack Chicken in advance?
Yes, you can make Keto Crack Chicken in advance. It’s a great dish for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s heated through.
If you want to prepare it further in advance, you can also freeze it. Store the cooked Keto Crack Chicken in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as needed. This makes it a convenient and time-saving option for busy days.
What can I use instead of ranch seasoning mix?
If you prefer to use a substitute for ranch seasoning mix, here are some alternatives:
- Homemade Ranch Seasoning: Mix dried herbs and spices to create your own ranch seasoning. Combine:
- 1 tablespoon dried dill
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried chives
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Italian Seasoning: Use Italian seasoning as a substitute. It won’t have the same ranch flavor but will provide a different yet tasty herbal profile.
- Greek Yogurt and Herbs: For a fresher flavor, mix Greek yogurt with dried dill, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mixture can replicate some of the ranch flavors.
- Seasoned Salt: Use a seasoned salt blend that includes herbs and spices similar to those in ranch seasoning. Adjust the salt quantity to taste.
- Commercial Seasoning Blends: Look for other pre-made seasoning blends that offer a similar flavor profile, such as buttermilk or herb blends, available in stores.
Adjust the quantity of these substitutes to match your taste preferences and the specific flavor profile you’re aiming for in your dish.
How can I make Keto Crack Chicken spicier?
To make Keto Crack Chicken spicier, you can try the following options:
- Add Jalapeños: Incorporate sliced fresh or pickled jalapeños into the dish. For extra heat, you can include the seeds and membranes.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the mixture to add a moderate level of heat. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
- Hot Sauce: Stir in a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce. This can add both heat and a bit of tanginess.
- Cayenne Pepper: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a more intense heat. Cayenne pepper is quite spicy, so start with a small amount and taste as you go.
- Sriracha or Chili Paste: Mix in some sriracha sauce or chili paste to give the dish a spicy kick with a touch of flavor.
- Spicy Ranch Seasoning: If you prefer a pre-made option, look for a spicy ranch seasoning mix or add a spicy ranch dressing mix.
- Chipotle Peppers: Incorporate finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce for a smoky heat.
- Pepper Jack Cheese: Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar to add both spice and a creamy texture.
Adjust the spiciness according to your taste preferences and the heat tolerance of your guests.
Can I cook Keto Crack Chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook Keto Crack Chicken in a slow cooker. Here’s how you can do it:
- Prepare Ingredients: Place the raw chicken breasts or thighs into the slow cooker. Add the cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and any other desired ingredients, such as bacon or additional seasonings.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The chicken should be fully cooked and tender enough to shred easily.
- Shred Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker. Mix everything well to combine the cream cheese and other ingredients with the shredded chicken.
- Add Final Touches: If desired, stir in extra cheese or crumbled bacon at the end, and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to melt the cheese and heat everything through.
Cooking Keto Crack Chicken in a slow cooker is convenient and helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making it a perfect option for a busy day.
I’m Priscilla Swahn, a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutritional sciences. With over a decade of experience in holistic nutrition, I specialize in creating delicious keto recipes to help you enjoy a healthy lifestyle. On iKetoMom, you’ll find a variety of recipes for every meal—hearty breakfasts, satisfying lunches, mouthwatering dinners, indulgent desserts, and refreshing drinks. My recipes make keto living easy and enjoyable for the whole family. Featured in EatingWell and MindBodyGreen, I also collaborate with health centers and corporate companies to share my expertise. Join me and discover the joy of keto cooking!