Name: Crack Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups penne pasta; 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped; 8 oz cream cheese; 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 packet dry ranch seasoning mix; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 6 slices crispy bacon, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)

If you love creamy, cheesy pasta dishes that deliver big on flavor with little effort, Crack Chicken Penne is about to become your weeknight favorite. Loaded with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, tender penne pasta, and all wrapped in a rich, ranch-seasoned cheese sauce, this one-pot wonder brings serious comfort to your table.

What makes this dish even better is how quickly it comes together. With just a handful of familiar ingredients and under 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a hearty dinner that feels indulgent but is wonderfully easy. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back Sunday, Crack Chicken Penne satisfies every craving.

Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Penne

This dish is more than just a creamy chicken pasta. The ranch seasoning adds a tangy, herby kick that makes the sauce unforgettable. The crispy bacon lends a smoky crunch that contrasts perfectly with the soft pasta and creamy sauce. It feeds a crowd, reheats well, and is totally customizable — which makes it a repeat request in many homes.

Can I Use a Different Pasta for This Recipe?

Absolutely! While penne works beautifully because it holds onto the sauce in every crevice, you can easily use rigatoni, rotini, or shells. Even spaghetti or fettuccine can step in during a pinch. The sauce is thick and creamy enough to coat any shape well, so go ahead and use what you have on hand.

Ingredients for the Crack Chicken Penne

This recipe uses basic staples that combine to create something truly mouthwatering. It’s all about the balance of creamy, cheesy, salty, and savory.

Penne pasta
Cooked chicken breast
Cream cheese
Shredded cheddar cheese
Dry ranch seasoning mix
Milk
Chicken broth
Crispy bacon
Garlic powder
Black pepper
Green onions (optional, for topping)

Each ingredient brings something vital to the table. The penne pasta is the hearty base. Cooked chicken makes this a filling main dish. Cream cheese and cheddar cheese give it that creamy, melty texture. Ranch mix is the key flavor booster. A combo of milk and chicken broth thins the sauce just right. Bacon adds smoky crunch, and garlic powder and pepper round it all out. Sprinkle green onions on top for color and bite.

How To Make the Crack Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add cream cheese, milk, and chicken broth. Stir constantly until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce begins to bubble.

Step 3: Season It

Whisk in ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for a few minutes so the flavors develop.

Step 4: Add the Chicken and Cheese

Stir in the cooked chicken and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and everything is well combined.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add the cooked pasta and stir to coat everything in the sauce. Toss in chopped bacon and stir once more.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with green onions and more bacon if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

How to Serve and Store This Dish

Crack Chicken Penne is perfect for feeding a hungry family of 4 to 6. Serve it hot straight from the stove for the creamiest texture. If you’re prepping it ahead of time or have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce and microwave or reheat on the stove. It also freezes well for up to a month, though the texture may slightly change after thawing.

What to Serve With Crack Chicken Penne?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up all that cheesy ranch sauce.

Simple Side Salad

A fresh, crisp salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.

Roasted Broccoli

The charred edges and nutty flavor of roasted broccoli pair beautifully with creamy pasta.

Steamed Green Beans

A classic veggie side that brings color and a tender-crisp bite to your plate.

Caesar Salad

The garlicky, tangy dressing adds an extra savory kick that works well with the pasta.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their earthy flavor and crispy texture are great with bacon-laced penne.

Corn on the Cob

For a summery twist, serve Crack Chicken Penne with juicy corn on the cob and butter.

Fresh Fruit Salad

Balance the creamy main with a light and sweet fruit salad.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this creamy, cozy pasta dish, you’ll probably enjoy these hearty pasta favorites from Mia Plates:

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use rotini instead of penne? Add a bit of hot sauce or extra cheddar? I love seeing how others make this recipe their own.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks, savory mains, and feel-good favorites on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next obsession.