Crack Chicken Penne

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Every once in a while, a dish comes along that completely changes the dinner game, and for me, that dish was Crack Chicken Penne. I remember the first time I whipped this up on a weeknight whim, using just what I had in my fridge and pantry. I expected it to be decent, but what came out of that skillet was nothing short of legendary. Creamy, savory, and packed with flavor, it quickly became a favorite not just for me, but for anyone lucky enough to get a plate.

It has everything I love: juicy, tender chicken, crisp bacon bits, and penne pasta smothered in a cheese-laced, ranch-infused cream sauce. What I especially enjoy about it is how easily it comes together. It’s the kind of meal you can count on when time is short, and you still want to serve something that makes everyone say, “Wow.”

This recipe also carries a little nostalgia. It reminds me of cozy Sunday evenings, the comforting scent of dinner filling the kitchen, and the chatter of loved ones around the table. It’s a dish that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are. And if you’re into quick, creamy pasta dishes like my Creamy Beef and Shells or the One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta, you’re going to love this too.

Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne is a full-flavored comfort food that hits all the right notes. The combination of ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, and melty cheese wrapped around al dente penne makes every bite irresistible. It’s quick to prepare, uses pantry staples, and feeds a crowd effortlessly. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a family, or just craving a hearty dinner, this dish is always a winner.

Ingredients

Chicken Breast: The star of this dish. Diced and cooked, it brings a hearty, satisfying bite.

Penne Pasta: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, penne adds the right texture and shape to hold everything together.

Cream Cheese: This is what makes the sauce luxuriously creamy. It melts beautifully into the pan, creating a rich base.

Cheddar Cheese: Adds sharpness and depth to the creamy sauce, balancing out the richness.

Bacon: Crispy, salty, and smoky, bacon takes the flavor to the next level.

Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is the signature ingredient that gives the dish its distinctive “crack” flavor profile.

Chicken Broth: Helps thin out the sauce and enhances the savory chicken flavor.

Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: Subtle yet essential, these seasonings elevate the overall flavor of the dish.

Salt and Black Pepper: Basic but necessary for seasoning and bringing all the flavors to life.

How to Make Crack Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving a bit of the bacon grease in the pan for flavor.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

To the same pan, add diced chicken breast. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sauté until cooked through and golden on the outside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat and add cream cheese to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir until it begins to melt, then pour in the chicken broth and ranch seasoning. Stir to combine and form a creamy sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked penne and crispy bacon to the skillet. Stir everything together, then sprinkle in shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the dish is fully coated in sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or chopped parsley if desired.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

You can switch things up with this Crack Chicken Penne to match your preferences or pantry. Instead of penne, try rotini or rigatoni—they hold sauce just as well. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and skip the bacon, although you’ll miss that smoky touch. Shredded rotisserie chicken can also be a convenient swap for raw chicken breast.

If you’re craving extra veggies, toss in some chopped spinach, steamed broccoli, or even mushrooms. As for the cheese, feel free to substitute cheddar with mozzarella, Colby Jack, or a spicy pepper jack to dial up the heat.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Crack Chicken Penne is rich and comforting on its own, but pairing it with a crisp side salad makes for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette also helps soak up every last drop of that creamy sauce.

If you’re serving this for a family dinner, I like putting out some roasted green beans or a light cucumber-tomato salad on the side. It also works wonderfully with a glass of chilled white wine, like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce and maintain that creamy texture.

Microwave reheating works fine for small portions, but if you’re warming up a larger batch, use the stovetop on low heat and stir frequently.

FAQs

How do I keep Crack Chicken Penne from drying out?

Adding a little chicken broth or milk when reheating helps keep the sauce creamy and prevents the pasta from getting too dry.

Can I make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook and assemble the dish in advance. Store it in the fridge and reheat just before serving.

Is Crack Chicken Penne spicy?

Not at all. It’s rich and flavorful but not spicy. You can add red pepper flakes or spicy cheese if you want more heat.

Can I use gluten-free pasta in Crack Chicken Penne?

Absolutely. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as gluten-free pasta can get mushy if overcooked.

What can I serve with Crack Chicken Penne?

It pairs well with fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a full, balanced meal.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re a fan of creamy, satisfying pasta dishes, you won’t want to miss my Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta or the rich and indulgent Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce. For a stovetop version that comes together in no time, try the Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta. Each of these dishes brings comfort and flavor to the table.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Crack Chicken Penne is one of those recipes you’ll want to come back to again and again, so don’t forget to pin it to your favorite Pinterest board. Sharing is caring, so be sure to pass it along to friends and family who love quick and creamy comfort food. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe deserves a spot in your rotation.

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