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Baked Crack Chicken Breasts are shown in a delicious-looking featured image, ready to be served.

BEST BAKED CRACK CHICKEN BREASTS

These baked chicken breasts are incredibly flavorful and juicy, thanks to a creamy ranch sauce, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese topping. Pre-cooking the bacon and softening the cream cheese are key to preventing a greasy, separated sauce. Resting the chicken after baking ensures ultimate tenderness.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 oz dry ranch seasoning packet
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • Optional: sliced green onions, for garnish
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Meat Thermometer
  • cutting board
  • knife
  • aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Place chicken breasts in the baking dish. If the chicken breasts are very thick, consider pounding them to an even thickness (about 1/2 inch) for even cooking.
  3. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and dry ranch seasoning. Mix until smooth and well combined.
  5. Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon over the cream cheese mixture.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.
  8. Let the chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken breast.
  9. Garnish with sliced green onions, if desired.

Notes

Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened to prevent sauce separation. Pre-cooking the bacon until crispy is essential for texture. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness for even cooking. Resting the chicken after baking is crucial for retaining moisture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.