Introduction

Baked Crack Chicken is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. With tender chicken breasts smothered in a ranch-spiced cream cheese and bacon mixture, it’s sure to become a family favorite for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Two pieces of cooked chicken breast lie on a white plate atop a wooden board with a white marbled surface underneath. Each piece has three visible layers: the bottom layer is light beige, slightly browned chicken, the middle layer is a creamy white sauce spread thickly, and the top layer is melted bright yellow cheddar cheese sprinkled with small crispy brown bacon bits and tiny green herb flakes. To the right, part of a white towel with gray stripes is visible. 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 season the chicken filets with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing mix until well combined.
Step 3: Place the chicken filets in a baking dish in a single layer. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over each filet.
Step 4: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the chicken, followed by the chopped cooked bacon.
Step 5: Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to settle.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika to the cream cheese mixture.
Swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder taste.
Serve with steamed vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Use turkey bacon or omit bacon for a lighter version.

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 the creamy texture.

How to Serve

Two pieces of cooked chicken breasts lay side by side on a white plate. Each piece is covered with a creamy white sauce layer that is topped with a bright yellow melted cheddar cheese layer. Small crispy brown bacon bits are scattered over the cheese. The plate sits on a wooden board, with a white and gray striped cloth napkin to the side 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 use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs will work great and add extra juiciness, though they may need a slightly longer baking time.

Do I need to cook the bacon before adding it?

Yes, cooking the bacon beforehand ensures it crisps up nicely and adds a smoky crunch to the dish.

Baked Crack Chicken Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 110 reviews

A creamy, cheesy, and flavorful baked chicken dish featuring tender chicken breasts smothered in a ranch and cream cheese mixture, topped with sharp cheddar and crispy bacon for a deliciously addictive meal perfect for any weeknight dinner.

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

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

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

Cheese Mixture

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

Toppings

4 strips bacon, cooked and chopped

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Season the halved chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance the flavor.
Mix the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and ranch dressing mix until fully blended into a smooth, creamy mixture.
Stuff the Chicken: Place the chicken filets in a baking dish. Evenly spread the cream cheese mixture over each piece of chicken.
Add Cheese and Bacon: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the cream cheese layer. Then top with the chopped cooked bacon pieces for a savory crunch.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from oven and allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the flavors meld together.

Notes

You can substitute the ranch dressing mix for homemade ranch seasoning if preferred.
For extra creaminess, add a splash of sour cream to the cheese mixture.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
For crispier bacon, bake separately to your preferred doneness before chopping.

Keywords: Baked Crack Chicken, creamy chicken recipe, ranch chicken, cheesy baked chicken, bacon chicken recipe