Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken
This Creamy Pepper Jack Chicken is a comforting dish featuring tender chicken smothered in a luscious, spicy sauce. With minimal prep time and a handful of ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Author: homebitesia
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours
- Total Time: 31 minute
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker or Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6 slices)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, for slow cooker)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Prepare the Chicken: Place 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Make sure they are in a single layer for even cooking.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper evenly over the chicken. This ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
- Add Chicken Broth: If using, pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth to keep the chicken moist and prevent sticking. This adds depth to the dish.
- Add Cream Cheese: Dollop 8 oz of softened cream cheese over the chicken. Use a spatula to spread it out a bit; it will melt into the chicken as it cooks.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. It should fall apart easily if properly cooked.
- Return Shredded Chicken: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Stir well to combine it with the cream cheese mixture.
- Add Cheese and Bacon: Stir in 1 cup of shredded pepper jack cheese and 1/2 cup of crumbled bacon until everything is well combined. The cheese should melt into a gooey, creamy goodness.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with 1/4 cup of chopped green onions before serving hot. The fresh onions add a nice crunch and color to the dish.
- Stovetop Method: If you prefer the stovetop, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and browned. Follow the same steps as above for the sauce and combine everything in the skillet.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 4 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Keywords: Don’t skip the seasoning: The ranch seasoning is crucial for flavor. Use a high-quality brand to ensure maximum taste. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken to avoid overcooking. Aim for 165°F (74°C) for perfectly tender chicken.