Get ready to experience the most addictive chicken recipe that's about to revolutionize your dinner routine! This Instant Pot Crack Chicken is not just a meal; it's a culinary sensation that combines creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors in one irresistible dish. Whether you're a busy parent, a meal prep enthusiast, or simply someone who loves mind-blowing comfort food, this recipe will become your new obsession. Imagine tender, perfectly seasoned chicken that falls apart at the touch of a fork, smothered in rich cream cheese, melted cheddar, and crispy bacon bits - it's so good, you'll understand why it's called "crack" chicken!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch thick pieces. Ensure cream cheese is softened at room temperature. Shred cheddar cheese if not pre-shredded.
- Place chicken breasts into the Instant Pot inner pot. Sprinkle entire ranch seasoning packet evenly over the chicken.
- Cut cream cheese into small cubes and distribute over the chicken. This helps it melt more evenly during cooking.
- Close the Instant Pot lid, ensuring the valve is set to "sealing" position. Select "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" mode and set timer for 10-12 minutes on high pressure.
- Once cooking cycle completes, perform a quick release of pressure by carefully moving the valve to "venting" position.
- Open lid and shred chicken using two forks. The chicken should be tender and easily pulled apart.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and mix thoroughly. The residual heat will help melt the cheese.
- Sprinkle bacon bits over the chicken and gently fold into the mixture.
- Transfer to serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions.
- Serve hot as a main dish, over rice, in sandwiches, or as a dip with crackers.
Tips
- Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure cream cheese is softened to help it melt more evenly throughout the dish.
- Don't skip the quick release method - it helps prevent overcooking the chicken.
- For extra crispy bacon bits, consider quickly pan-frying them before adding to the dish.
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken.
- For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Customize the heat by adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
- For meal prep, this recipe freezes beautifully for up to 2 months.
- Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 422kcal
Carbohydrates: 4g
Protein: 41g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 13g
Cholesterol: 143mg
