I have made a lot of chicken recipes, and after a lot of taste tests I’ve decided that this EASY baked cracked chicken is one of the …
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EASY Baked Crack Chicken Recipe – We NOW Make This Every Weekend!
If you’re on the hunt for a recipe that will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation, look no further than this delicious Baked Crack Chicken. It’s so easy to prepare and so mouth-wateringly good that my family and I now make it every weekend! Packed with flavor and rich in creamy goodness, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back weekend gatherings.
What is Crack Chicken?
Crack Chicken is not just a catchy name; it’s a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with savory ingredients like cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, and a medley of spices. The result is a creamy, savory dish that’s downright addictive. Perfect served over rice, in a sandwich, or as a standalone meal, this dish takes tenderness and flavor to a whole new level.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Chicken Breasts: 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best.
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz block of full-fat cream cheese for added creaminess.
- Ranch Dressing Mix: 1 packet (about 1 oz) for that signature flavor.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheese – sharp or mild, your choice!
- Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and chopped (optional but highly recommended!)
- Green Onions: For garnish, sliced thin.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Chicken Broth: 1 cup to keep the chicken moist during baking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your dish cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large baking dish. Make sure they are spread out and not overlapping, allowing for even cooking. Season lightly with salt and pepper for added flavor.
Step 3: Add the Creamy Mixture
In a bowl, combine the cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, and chicken broth. Mix them well until you have a smooth consistency. Spread this mixture evenly over the chicken in your baking dish.
Step 4: Bake Away
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Final Touches
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Allow it to sit for about 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey. For an added crunch and smoky flavor, sprinkle cooked and chopped bacon before serving. Finish with a sprinkle of sliced green onions for a fresh touch.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Crack Chicken can be served in several ways:
- Over Rice: Spoon the creamy chicken mixture over a bed of fluffy rice.
- In a Wrap or Sandwich: Load it into a soft tortilla or crusty bread for a delightful wrap or sandwich.
- With Vegetables: Pair it with steamed broccoli or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
- As a Dip: Serve it as a dip with tortilla chips or fresh veggies for a festive party appetizer.
Why We Love This Recipe
One of the best aspects of the Baked Crack Chicken is its versatility. You can easily adjust it to your family’s taste preferences. Love spice? Add some crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeños! Prefer it to be lighter? Substitute with Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese. The possibilities are truly endless!
Moreover, it’s a one-dish meal that requires minimal cleanup, making it perfect for any busy home. The fact that it’s made in about an hour and provides hearty, comforting flavors makes it a weekly favorite in our household.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dish that’s easy to prepare, adaptable, and irresistibly tasty, the Baked Crack Chicken recipe should be at the top of your list. With its creamy goodness and savory flavors, it’s no wonder that we now make this every weekend. Try it out for yourself, and you might just find that it becomes a beloved part of your culinary repertoire too! Happy cooking!
