Are you a fan of delicious and yummy chicken dishes? If so, you’re in for a gift. In this article, I will tell you about Crack Chicken Recipe Oven. The dish is known for its unique combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon and creamy cheese, resulting in a mouth-watering dish.
So, let’s dive into the world of crack chicken and discover how to create this culinary masterpiece in your own kitchen!
Table of Contents
Crack Chicken Recipe Oven: The Perfect Combo of Flavor and Crunch
Crack chicken, also known as bacon ranch chicken, has gained immense popularity among chicken lovers. Its addictive taste and simplicity in preparation make it a go-to dish for gatherings, weeknight dinners, or potlucks. The combination of flavors from crispy bacon, zesty ranch seasoning, and melted cheese creates a culinary experience that keeps people coming back for more.
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Ingredients for Crack Chicken Recipe Oven
To make crack chicken in the oven, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices of bacon
- 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces of cream cheese
- 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup of chicken broth
- Freshly chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Follow these simple steps to prepare your crack chicken:
1. Preparing the Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Arrange the chicken breasts evenly in a baking dish, ensuring they form a single layer.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken breasts.
2. Adding Bacon and Cream Cheese
- Cook the bacon until crispy, either in a skillet on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and set it aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.
- Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken breasts.
3. Baking the Crack Chicken
- Pour the chicken broth into the baking dish around the chicken.
- Shield the dish by placing aluminum foil over it, then proceed to bake it for a duration of 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Garnishing and Serving
- Once cooked, remove the cracked chicken from the oven.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy the delightful flavors of crack chicken!
Tips for Cooking Perfect Crack Chicken Recipe Oven
- For extra crispy bacon, consider baking it in the oven on a separate baking sheet while preparing the chicken.
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Utilize an instant-read thermometer to gauge the internal temperature of the chicken, ensuring it reaches a safe consumption temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Experiment with different variations of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, to add a unique twist to your crack chicken.
5. Serving Suggestions
Crack chicken can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions and side dishes to complement this delightful dish:
- Serve crack chicken over a bed of cooked rice or pasta.
- Stuff the cracked chicken into tortillas or buns for flavorful sandwiches.
- Pair it with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for a nutritious option.
6. Healthier Alternatives and Variations
If you’re looking for healthier alternatives or want to try different flavors, here are a few suggestions:
- Substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon to reduce the overall fat content.
- Opt for low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a lighter option.
- Use homemade ranch seasoning mix to control the sodium content.
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Q.1 Can I make crack chicken in a slow cooker?
Yes, crack chicken can be made in a slow cooker. Simply follow the same steps for preparation and cook on low heat for 4-6 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours.
Q.2 Can I freeze cracked chicken?
Yes, crack chicken can be frozen. After preparing the dish, let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bags. You can safely store it for a duration of three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q.3 Can I use bone-in chicken for crack chicken?
Although boneless chicken breasts are commonly used, you can use bone-in chicken as well. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Q.4 Can I make crack chicken without bacon?
While bacon adds a distinct flavor to crack chicken, you can omit it if you prefer a bacon-free version. Rest assured, the dish will retain its delightful and appetizing flavors.
Conclusion
Cracked Chicken is an incredibly delicious and easy-to-make dish that has captured the hearts of foodies around the world. This delicious combination of chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese will impress guests on any occasion.
Follow the simple steps outlined in this article to make Cracked Chicken and enjoy an explosion of flavor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious Crack Chicken Recipe Oven.
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Crack Chicken Recipe Oven: The Perfect Combo of Flavor and Crunch
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¾ cup cream cheese softened
- ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese divided
- 5 slices thick cut bacon cooked and crumbled, divided
- 4 green onions thinly sliced
Instructions
- Step 1. Preparing the Chicken1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).2. Arrange the chicken breasts evenly in a baking dish, ensuring they form a single layer.3. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Step 2. Adding Bacon and Cream Cheese1. Cook the bacon until crispy, either in a skillet on the stovetop or in the oven.2. Crumble the cooked bacon and set it aside3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon.4. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the seasoned chicken breasts.
- Step 3. Baking the Crack Chicken1. Pour the chicken broth into the baking dish around the chicken.2. Shield the dish by placing aluminum foil over it, then proceed to bake it for a duration of 20 minutes.3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 4. Garnishing and Serving1. Once cooked, remove the crack chicken from the oven.2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Video
Notes
Tips for Cooking Perfect Crack Chicken
- For extra crispy bacon, consider baking it in the oven on a separate baking sheet while preparing the chicken.
- Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Utilize an instant-read thermometer to gauge the internal temperature of the chicken, ensuring it reaches a safe consumption temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Experiment with different variations of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or pepper jack, to add a unique twist to your crack chicken.
Serving Suggestions:
Pairing Crack Chicken with Delicious Sides- Crack chicken can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions and side dishes to complement this delightful dish:
- Serve crack chicken over a bed of cooked rice or pasta.
- Stuff the crack chicken into tortillas or buns for flavorful sandwiches.
- Pair it with a fresh green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Add a side of roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli for a nutritious option.
Healthier Alternatives and Variations
If you’re looking for healthier alternatives or want to try different flavors, here are a few suggestions:- Substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon to reduce the overall fat content.
- Opt for low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt as a lighter option.
- Use homemade ranch seasoning mix to control the sodium content.
- Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.