This creamy pepper jack crack chicken is a true crowd-pleaser! With tender chicken, spicy pepper jack cheese, and a bold flavor, it’s comfort food at its best.
You won’t believe how easy it is to make! Just toss the ingredients in a slow cooker and let it do all the work. I love serving it over rice or in a bun—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe since they cook evenly and become very tender. If you’re looking for a lighter option, skinless chicken thighs can also work well, just keep an eye on the cooking time.
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese adds a nice kick. If you want something milder, Monterey Jack or a blend with pepper flakes can substitute. For those who love heat, you can also add some diced jalapeños.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: A staple here, it brings a great flavor. You can make your own ranch seasoning using a mix of dried herbs and spices if you’re avoiding pre-packaged mixes. Just combine garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and parsley.
Bacon: Cooked bacon gives that smoky flavor. If you prefer turkey bacon or even bacon bits, those can be used too. For vegetarian options, consider smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar flavor.
Green Onions: They add a fresh crunch as a garnish. Feel free to leave them out or replace them with chopped cilantro or parsley for a different touch.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the chicken just right is key to this dish. Here’s how to do that:
- Make sure your chicken breasts are of even thickness. If they vary in size, pound them slightly to create a uniform shape, ensuring even cooking.
- A meat thermometer is really helpful here. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This way, you avoid over-cooking and keep it juicy.
- If baking, cover with foil for the first half to keep moisture in, then uncover to allow the cheese to get bubbly and golden.
Cooking times may vary based on your oven and the exact size of the chicken, so keep an eye on it!
Easy Creamy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz)
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 25-30 minutes to cook in the oven, or 4 hours in a slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day when you want something easy yet satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you’re using a slow cooker instead, you’ll want to set that up too. While it’s warming, season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
2. Mix the Creamy Filling:
In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and shredded pepper jack cheese. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed and creamy. This is where all the delicious flavor starts!
3. Assemble the Chicken:
Next, place the seasoned chicken breasts in a baking dish or your slow cooker. Spread the creamy cheese mixture evenly over each chicken breast, making sure every piece is coated. This will make your chicken nice and rich!
4. Add Toppings:
Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the cheese-covered chicken. Add small pats of butter on top for even more richness. If you love cheese (who doesn’t?), sprinkle some shredded mozzarella on top as well!
5. Cooking Time:
If you’re using the oven, bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. If you’re using a slow cooker, cook on low for about 4 hours. Easy peasy!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once cooked, remove the chicken and if you want, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a splash of color and flavor. Serve this creamy, flavorful chicken hot over rice, pasta, or even alongside your favorite veggies. Enjoy your comforting and delicious meal!
### FAQ for Easy Creamy Pepper Jack Crack Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Breasts for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! However, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to do this is by placing them in the fridge overnight or using the defrost setting on your microwave. Cooking from frozen is not recommended as it may affect cooking times and result in uneven cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can make your own by mixing together garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, parsley, salt, and pepper. About 2 tablespoons of this blend should work well as a substitute for one packet of ranch seasoning.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore some moisture.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and creamy mixture in advance and assemble it in the baking dish or slow cooker. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if the chicken is coming straight from the fridge!
