Why is it called crack chicken?

The term “crack chicken” comes from its addictive flavor and creamy texture . With a mix of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar, and bacon, it delivers a savory punch that keeps you coming back for more—just like a crave-worthy comfort food should.

How long does crack chicken take?

With an Instant Pot, the process is quick. It takes 15 minutes of pressure cooking , plus about 10 minutes for natural release , and another 5–10 minutes for shredding and stirring everything together. So, from start to finish, you’ll need roughly 30–35 minutes total .

Can I put raw chicken in the Instant Pot?

Yes, absolutely! The Instant Pot is designed to cook raw chicken safely. As long as you pressure cook on HIGH for 15 minutes , the chicken will reach a safe internal temperature and shred easily. Just make sure it’s boneless and skinless for best results. Want another hands-off meal using raw chicken? Try our slow cooker cheesy ranch chicken for a similar flavor profile.

How to thicken up crack chicken?

If your sauce is too thin, you have several options: Use the Sauté function after pressure cooking to simmer and reduce excess liquid. Add more shredded cheese , like cheddar or parmesan. Sprinkle in xanthan gum (great for keto diets) to bind the sauce. Stir in a bit of cream or sour cream to help thicken while keeping it rich.

Is crack chicken keto?

Yes, it’s naturally keto-friendly —as long as you skip the bread or pasta . It’s high in healthy fats and protein, with very few net carbs. For an even more keto-focused version, use homemade ranch mix and serve it in lettuce wraps or over steamed vegetables.

Crack Chicken Instant Pot – Best Creamy Recipe in 30 Min!

How To Make The Creamiest Crack Chicken In The Instant Pot – So Easy!

Print Recipe

A creamy, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying chicken recipe made right in the Instant Pot. Loaded with bacon, ranch, cheddar, and cream cheese—this dish is low-carb, keto-friendly, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Author: Chef Rina
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

3 pounds chicken breasts
½ cup low sodium chicken broth
2 teaspoons Greek or Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons ranch seasoning dry powder (about 1 oz.)
5 ounces cream cheese, cut into 1 oz squares
1½ teaspoons hot sauce
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon dried parsley
6 slices bacon, chopped
7 green onion stalks, diced
1 package bread buns (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Cook bacon until crisp, then chop and set aside.
In your Instant Pot, add chicken broth, chicken breasts, Greek or Italian seasoning, ranch seasoning, and cream cheese (cubed).
Secure the lid and set the valve to SEALING.
Select MANUAL or PRESSURE COOK, and cook on HIGH for 15 minutes.
Once done, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
Open the lid and remove the chicken. Shred it using two forks.
While chicken is out, whisk the sauce in the pot until smooth.
Add in cheddar cheese, parmesan, hot sauce, dried parsley, and bacon. Stir well.
Return shredded chicken to the pot, add green onions, and mix until fully coated and heated through.
Serve hot on buns, over rice, in wraps, or as-is for a keto option.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6 servings
Calories: 564kcal
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 1146mg
Fat: 31g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 60g
Cholesterol: 211mg

Keywords: Cream cheese, bacon, chicken breasts, boneless chicken breast, skinless chicken breast, ranch dressing mix, franks red hot

Find it online: https://www.joyliciousrecipes.com/crack-chicken-instant-pot/