Crack Chicken Sandwiches

Here’s a  recipe for Crack Chicken Sandwiches — creamy, cheesy, flavorful chicken sandwiches that are super addictive (hence the name “crack” chicken). I’ll give you step-by-step instructions and tips to make it perfect.

Crack Chicken Sandwiches Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 lbs (900g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)

• 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled (or about 1/2 cup bacon bits)

• 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)

For the Sandwich:

• 8 sandwich buns or rolls (brioche buns work great)

• Lettuce leaves (optional)

• Tomato slices (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

• Slow Cooker Method: Place chicken breasts in a slow cooker with a pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender and easy to shred.

• Instant Pot Method: Add chicken breasts with 1 cup chicken broth or water. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then do a quick release. Shred once cool enough.

• Stovetop Method: Boil chicken breasts in salted water for about 15-20 minutes until cooked through. Let cool and shred.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

• Use two forks to shred the chicken finely or coarsely, based on your preference.

Step 3: Mix the Filling

• In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar, crumbled bacon, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

• Mix thoroughly until creamy and well combined.

Step 4: Heat the Mixture

• You can heat this mixture on the stove over medium heat until warm and melty, or put it in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

• This step helps melt the cheese and blend flavors perfectly.

Step 5: Assemble the Sandwiches

• Toast your buns lightly if desired.

• Spoon a generous amount of the crack chicken filling onto the bottom half of each bun.

• Add optional lettuce and tomato slices for freshness and crunch.

• Top with the other half of the bun.

Step 6: Serve

• Garnish with chopped chives or green onions if you like.

• Serve immediately with your favorite side like fries, chips, or a salad.

Tips:

• You can swap ranch dressing for blue cheese or a mix of mayo + ranch seasoning.

• Add some hot sauce or jalapeños if you want a spicy kick.

• Use leftover rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.

• For extra gooeyness, add more cheese on top and broil the assembled sandwiches for 2-3 minutes.