Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice is the ultimate comfort food creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s become our go-to weeknight meal for a reason! The first time I made this recipe, I was having one of those days you know, when everyone’s starving, the fridge looks empty, and dinner feels like an impossible mountain. I tossed everything in the slow cooker, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best. Three hours later? My kids were licking their plates, my husband asked for seconds, and I knew this recipe was a keeper. It’s been our Wednesday night savior ever since!
Why This Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice Will Become Your Family’s Favorite
Comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. This dish is creamy, cheesy, full of flavor, and best of all? You just dump it all in your slow cooker and let it work its magic. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or feeding a crowd without breaking a sweat. Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice is one of those set-it-and-forget-it meals that truly delivers.
Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice
Equipment
- 6-quart Slow Cooker
- Mixing Bowl
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups
- Cheese Grater
Ingredients
Main
- 2 lbs Chicken Breasts skinless, boneless
- 1 lb Diced Smoked Turkey
- 2 10.5 oz cans Cream of Chicken Soup unsalted
- 1 oz Ranch Dressing Mix dry mix only
- 1.75 cups Milk whole milk preferred
- 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice uncooked, rinsed
- 1.5 cups Cheddar Cheese shredded
The 5 Ingredients You Can’t Skip for Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to make this dreamy Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice:
- 2 lbs skinless boneless chicken breasts – About four breasts. I use fresh or frozen, depending on what I have.
- 1 lb diced smoked turkey – A flavorful alternative that adds a savory kick without overpowering the dish.
- 2 (10.5 oz) cans unsalted cream of chicken soup – It’s the creamy backbone of the whole dish.
- 1 (1 oz) packet ranch dressing mix – Just the dry mix! It gives that classic crack chicken flavor.
- 1 3/4 cups milk – I use whole milk for that rich, cozy texture.
- 1 cup regular long-grain white rice – Trust me, don’t pre-cook it! The slow cooker does all the work.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Half goes in the mix, half melts on top. Cheese = love.
Anna Tip: Rinse your rice before adding it to the slow cooker. It helps prevent it from getting too sticky!
How to Make Crack Chicken and Rice in a Slow Cooker
This is my favorite kind of recipe: dump, stir, and walk away. No stress, no fancy steps. Making Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice couldn’t be easier:
- Spray the slow cooker insert with cooking spray so nothing sticks.
- Lay the chicken breasts in the bottom of your 6-quart slow cooker.
- In a large bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, diced smoked turkey, ranch mix, HALF of the shredded cheese, milk, and rinsed rice.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and smooth it out.
- Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the top.
- Cover and cook on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. Try not to peek! Opening the lid messes with the moisture balance.
- Once done, remove the chicken, chop or shred it, then stir it back in.
- If it’s too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen it up.
More tasty ideas: Sweet Potato Boats, I Knew They Were Something Special
Anna Shortcut: I use pre-diced smoked turkey and pre-shredded cheddar to save time. No shame in making things easier!
What Makes This Chicken and Rice Casserole So Good
This Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice recipe is more than a meal it’s comfort in a bowl. The rice comes out soft and flavorful (don’t expect fluffy rice it’s a creamy casserole!). The chicken is tender and juicy, and the mix of ranch, savory turkey, and cheddar cheese? Pure magic. I even toss in a handful of frozen mixed veggies sometimes to sneak in extra color and nutrition.
FAQ
Can you serve crack chicken over rice?
Absolutely! But in this version, the rice cooks right in the dish, soaking up all that cheesy ranch goodness.
Can I put rice in a slow cooker with chicken?
Yes! Just be sure to use long-grain white rice and don’t cook it first. It needs to soak and simmer in the sauce.
Can you cook raw chicken and rice at the same time?
You sure can. That’s the beauty of this one-pot wonder everything cooks together.
What to serve with crockpot crack chicken?
I love a crisp side salad, roasted broccoli, or even some garlic bread for scooping.
Can I put frozen chicken in the crockpot?
Yes, just add about 30 extra minutes of cook time. The slow cooker handles it perfectly.
Why is crack chicken called crack chicken?
Because it’s addictive! The combo of ranch, savory meat, and cheese is just too good to resist.
Final Thoughts From My Kitchen
Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice is one of those meals that makes life feel a little easier and a lot tastier. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a meal prep go-to, it always hits the spot. Try it once and you’ll see why we keep coming back to it, week after week. It’s easy, hearty, and full of that classic crack chicken flavor your whole family will love.
If you make this Slow Cooker Crack Chicken and Rice, tag me I LOVE seeing your creations! From my kitchen to yours, happy cooking!
