Introduction

Baked Crack Chicken is a creamy, cheesy, and irresistible dish that’s perfect for a comforting dinner. With tender chicken breasts topped with a flavorful ranch cream cheese mixture, bacon, and cheddar, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make.

Two pieces of cooked chicken breast form the base layer on a white plate; the chicken has a light, juicy texture with some seasoning visible. On top of the chicken is a thick creamy white sauce layer, rich and slightly smooth. The top layer is bright yellow melted cheddar cheese, covering the sauce and chicken almost fully, with some golden brown crispy bits. Scattered on the cheese are small, crunchy bacon pieces, reddish-brown in color, adding texture and contrast. A few green parsley flakes are sprinkled on top for color. The plate sits on a wooden board with a white marbled texture in the background and a white cloth with gray stripes nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to create 4 filets
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 Tablespoons ranch dressing mix
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
4 strips bacon, cooked and chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish suitable for the chicken filets.
Step 2: Season the chicken filets with salt and pepper on both sides, then place them in the prepared baking dish.
Step 3: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing mix until smooth and well mixed.
Step 4: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the top of each chicken filet.
Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the cream cheese layer.
Step 6: Top the chicken with the chopped cooked bacon pieces for added flavor and crunch.
Step 7: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 8: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Baked Crack Chicken!

Tips & Variations

Try adding chopped green onions or jalapeños on top for a spicy kick.
Swap sharp cheddar for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier result.
Serve over rice or alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through, to maintain creamy texture without drying out the chicken.

How to Serve

The image shows two pieces of cooked chicken breasts placed side by side on a white plate. Each chicken breast is topped with a thick layer of melted bright yellow cheddar cheese, with small bits of crispy brown bacon scattered across the cheese. Underneath the cheese, there are creamy white patches of sauce visible, and some small green herb pieces are sprinkled over the top. The white plate is set on a round wooden board, with a white cloth with grey stripes folded nearby on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Bake it fresh when ready to serve.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and cheddar with your favorite dairy-free alternatives, and ensure the ranch mix is dairy-free as well.

Baked Crack Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 148 reviews

This Baked Crack Chicken recipe is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful chicken dish loaded with ranch seasoning, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon. Perfect for a quick and comforting weeknight meal, it boasts a rich texture and irresistible taste that pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or steamed vegetables.

Author: Tara
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, halved horizontally to create 4 filets
Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese and Seasoning

4 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 Tablespoons ranch dressing mix
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Bacon

4 strips bacon, cooked and chopped

Instructions

Prepare the oven and chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste and place them in a baking dish in a single layer.
Mix the creamy topping: In a small bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing mix until fully blended. This will create a flavorful and creamy coating for the chicken.
Assemble the dish: Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each chicken filet. Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top, ensuring all pieces are well covered.
Add the bacon: Sprinkle the cooked and chopped bacon evenly on top of the cheese layer for added crunch and smoky flavor.
Bake the chicken: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your choice of side dishes.

Notes

You can substitute ranch dressing mix with homemade ranch seasoning for a fresher taste.
Use thick-cut bacon for more texture or turkey bacon for a leaner option.
Ensure cream cheese is softened before mixing to achieve a smooth consistency.
Pair with steamed vegetables, pasta, or rice for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: Baked Crack Chicken, Easy Chicken Recipe, Cream Cheese Chicken, Ranch Chicken, Cheesy Chicken, Bacon Chicken, Comfort Food