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To make Keto Crack Chicken, gather the following ingredients: - 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs - 1 packet ranch dressing seasoning mix - 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup green onions, finely chopped - 1/2 cup bacon bits (optional for added crunch) - 1 tablespoon garlic powder - 1 tablespoon onion powder - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste These ingredients work together to create a rich and creamy dish. You can make Keto Crack Chicken your own by changing a few items: - Chicken: You can use chicken breasts instead of thighs if you prefer. - Cream Cheese: Swap it with Greek yogurt for a lighter option. - Cheese: Try using mozzarella or pepper jack for a different taste. - Bacon: Leave it out if you want a lighter dish or use turkey bacon. - Seasonings: Add spices like paprika or cayenne for extra heat. These changes can keep your meals fresh and exciting. To cook Keto Crack Chicken, you'll need some basic tools: - Slow cooker or Instant Pot - Measuring cups and spoons - Mixing spoon - Two forks for shredding the chicken - Cutting board and knife for chopping green onions Having these tools ready will make your cooking process smooth and easy. {{ingredient_image_2}} You can cook Keto Crack Chicken in two ways: a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. - Slow Cooker: Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. Add the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Spread the cream cheese on top. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Your chicken will come out tender and juicy. - Instant Pot: This method is quicker. Put the chicken in the pot, add the seasonings, and cream cheese. Seal the lid and cook on high for 15 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally. This step makes the chicken even more tender. Start by preparing your chicken. Place the chicken thighs into the cooker and sprinkle the ranch mix evenly. This adds tons of flavor. Then, sprinkle the garlic and onion powders, along with salt and pepper. Next, dollop the cream cheese on top. This will melt and mix in, creating a rich sauce. For the cooking time, use your chosen method. Check the chicken after cooking. It should be fork-tender. Once your chicken is cooked, take two forks to shred it inside the pot. This step is fun! Mix it well to blend the cream cheese with the chicken. Now, it’s time for the cheese! Add the shredded sharp cheddar and optional bacon bits. Stir until the cheese melts and everything combines. This adds creaminess and flavor. Finally, fold in most of the chopped green onions. Save some for garnish. This adds a fresh touch to your dish. Serve your Keto Crack Chicken warm with a sprinkle of green onions and cheese. Enjoy the tasty and easy meal! To shred chicken well, start with cooked chicken thighs. Use two forks to pull the meat apart. Hold one fork steady. Use the other fork to tear the meat. This method gives nice, even pieces. If the chicken is still warm, it shreds easier. For creamy results, always use softened cream cheese. Take it out of the fridge early. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. When you add it to the chicken, it spreads better. Stir well after shredding. This helps combine all flavors nicely. Garnish your Keto Crack Chicken for a nice touch. Use chopped green onions for freshness. Add a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese on top. This adds color and flavor. Serve it warm in bowls. Pair it with steamed broccoli or cauliflower for a full meal. Enjoy the taste and your beautiful plate! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and high-quality cheeses can elevate the flavor of your Keto Crack Chicken, making it even more delicious. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the mixture before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary. A little extra salt or pepper can make a big difference! Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage. Pair with Low-Carb Sides: This dish pairs wonderfully with low-carb vegetables like zucchini noodles or a fresh salad to keep your meal balanced and keto-friendly. {{image_4}} You can make Keto Crack Chicken even better with simple swaps. Try using turkey instead of chicken. Ground turkey works well and is leaner. If you want to cut carbs, replace the ranch seasoning with homemade herbs. Use thyme, parsley, and dill for a fresh twist. You can also swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt. This keeps the dish creamy but adds a nice tang. Adding veggies boosts flavor and nutrition. You can toss in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Chop them finely and mix them with the chicken at the start. They will soften as the chicken cooks. You can also add broccoli for a crunchy texture. It’s a great way to sneak in healthy greens, making the dish even better. Cheese can change the taste of this dish. While sharp cheddar is great, try pepper jack for heat. It adds a nice kick and melts perfectly. Mozzarella is another option. It gives a creamy, stretchy texture. You can also mix different cheeses for a unique flavor. Experimentation with cheese can make this dish exciting every time you cook it! After enjoying your Keto Crack Chicken, store leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps the chicken fresh and tasty. Let the dish cool down before sealing it. Place it in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. When you're ready to eat your leftovers, you have a few easy options. You can reheat in the microwave. Just place a portion on a microwave-safe plate and cover it. Heat for one to two minutes, stirring halfway through. You can also reheat on the stove. Just add a bit of water or broth in a pan. Heat over medium until warm, stirring often. If you want to freeze Keto Crack Chicken, first let it cool completely. Then, scoop it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. Label the bags with the date. You can freeze it for up to three months. To enjoy it later, thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, reheat as described above. This makes meal prep a breeze! Yes, Keto Crack Chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time. Store it in the fridge for up to four days. This dish also freezes well. Just place it in an airtight container. When you are ready to eat, simply reheat it. You can make Keto Crack Chicken without cream cheese. Try using sour cream or Greek yogurt instead. Both options will add creaminess and flavor. The dish will still taste great, but it may not be as rich. Adjust seasonings if needed to balance the flavors. Keto Crack Chicken pairs well with many sides. Here are some tasty options: - Steamed broccoli - Cauliflower rice - Zucchini noodles - Green salad - Roasted Brussels sprouts These sides are low in carbs and add nutrition to your meal. Enjoy your dinner! This article covered everything you need to know about making Keto Crack Chicken. We explored the full ingredient list, cooking methods, and helpful tips. You learned about ingredient swaps for keto diets, adding extra veggies for taste, and the best ways to store leftovers. Remember, small changes can make a big difference in flavor. Enjoy your cooking and putting your own spin on this dish! Keep experimenting to make it truly yours.

Keto Crack Chicken

A delicious and creamy chicken dish perfect for keto diets, featuring ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and cheddar.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 packet ranch dressing seasoning mix
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup green onions, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup bacon bits (optional for added crunch)
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • to taste salt and freshly ground black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Begin by placing the boneless, skinless chicken thighs into the base of a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Evenly sprinkle the ranch dressing seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt and pepper over the chicken. Ensure the chicken is well coated with the seasonings.
  • Carefully dollop the softened cream cheese on top of the seasoned chicken, spreading it out so it covers as much of the chicken as possible.
  • For Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. Cook until the chicken is fork-tender and can be easily shredded. For Instant Pot: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Once the cooking cycle has finished, allow for a natural pressure release for additional tenderness.
  • After the chicken is fully cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces within the cooking pot. Stir the mixture thoroughly to blend the cream cheese with the shredded chicken completely.
  • Next, incorporate the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the optional bacon bits (if using) into the chicken mixture, stirring until the cheese has melted and everything is evenly combined.
  • Finally, gently fold in most of the chopped green onions, reserving a small handful for garnish at the end.

Notes

Serve warm in bowls, garnished with green onions and extra cheese. Pairs well with steamed broccoli or cauliflower.
Keyword chicken, instant pot, keto, slow cooker