Description
This Baked Crack Chicken is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Made without pork and simplified for home cooks, it combines tender shredded chicken, melted cheese, crispy bacon (or a pork-free alternative), and tangy ranch seasoning—all baked to golden perfection. It’s perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or a comforting weeknight meal that comes together in one dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken breast (rotisserie or homemade)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or homemade blend)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 8 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (or omit for a meat-free version)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until well blended.
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Fold in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and the crumbled turkey bacon (if using).
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Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
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Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese over the top.
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Bake for 20–25 minutes or until bubbly and lightly golden on top.
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Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh chives or green onions if desired.
Notes
Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven for best results.
Meal Prep-Friendly: This recipe can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Simply cover and bake when ready to serve.
Freezer Option: Freeze individual portions or the whole dish (before baking) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking or reheating.
Customization Ideas: Add diced green chilies, spinach, or tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. Swap turkey bacon with crumbled cooked sausage if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 90mg