Name: 5-Ingredient Crack Chicken Sandwich
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: PT-490104H40M22S
Total time: PT-490104H40M22S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 6 to 8 sandwich buns

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Creamy, savory, ranch-flavored shredded chicken mixed with melted cheese and tucked into a soft bun is one of the simplest comfort recipes I enjoy making. With only five basic ingredients, it comes together effortlessly and always turns out rich, warm, and satisfying. 5-Ingredient Crack Chicken Sandwich

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it uses only a handful of ingredients and requires almost no prep time. I simply place everything in the pot or slow cooker and let it cook until the chicken becomes tender enough to shred. It’s perfect for busy days, gatherings, or an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese
1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
6 to 8 sandwich buns

Directions

I place the chicken breasts in a slow cooker (or in a large pot for stovetop cooking).
I add the block of cream cheese on top of the chicken.
I sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix evenly across the chicken.
I cook on low for 6 hours in the slow cooker, or simmer gently on the stovetop for about 45–60 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
I shred the chicken directly in the pot once it’s cooked through.
I stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy mixture.
I serve the crack chicken warm on soft sandwich buns.

Servings And Timing

This recipe makes about 6 to 8 sandwiches.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 6 hours on low in the slow cooker, or about 45–60 minutes on the stovetop
Total time: 6–7 hours (slow cooker) or about 1 hour (stovetop)

Variations

I sometimes swap cheddar for pepper jack when I want a spicier version.
I add sliced green onions at the end for a fresh finish.
I mix in a splash of hot sauce when I want extra heat.
I enjoy serving the mixture over rice or pasta instead of on buns for a different meal style.
I occasionally use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, I warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a small splash of milk if the mixture thickens too much.
For long-term storage, I freeze the chicken mixture for up to 2 months and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a day ahead because the flavors deepen as it chills.

Can I cook the chicken from frozen?

Yes, I can use frozen chicken in the slow cooker by adding about 1 extra hour of cook time.

What kind of buns work best?

I prefer using soft brioche or sesame buns because they hold the creamy mixture well.

Can I make this recipe lighter?

I use reduced-fat cream cheese when I want a lighter version of the dish.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I often double it for gatherings; the cooking time remains the same, but the pot should be large enough.

Conclusion

I find this 5-ingredient crack chicken sandwich ideal for quick, comforting meals that require almost no effort. It’s creamy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare, making it a recipe I use often when I want something warm, simple, and satisfying.