Name: Delicious Crack Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts, sliced; 8 oz penne pasta; 4 oz cream cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and black pepper to taste

There’s something irresistible about creamy pasta dishes, and my Delicious Crack Chicken Penne is no exception. The first time I made this recipe, I knew it was going to be a hit. Tender chicken breast, penne pasta, rich cream cheese, and crispy bacon all come together in a sauce so savory, it practically demands a second helping.

I love how the bold flavors balance out perfectly. The smoky bacon and ranch seasoning give the dish a punchy flavor, while the creamy cheese sauce soothes it all down. It’s my go-to on hectic weeknights when I want something comforting without compromising on flavor. And honestly, who can resist a cheesy pasta dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes?

What also makes this dish stand out is how well it stores and reheats. I often make extra just to enjoy leftovers the next day, and trust me, the flavor is just as fantastic. Pair it with a quick salad or some roasted veggies, and you’ve got yourself a meal that feels like it came straight from a restaurant.

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Crack Chicken Penne

This pasta is comfort food at its finest. It combines the ease of a one-pan dish with the decadence of a creamy sauce. If you’re into recipes like Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta or Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta, you’re going to fall in love with this one too.

Whether you’re cooking for the family or just for yourself, the layers of creamy, savory, and salty flavors make this penne unforgettable. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and customizable to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Chicken breast: The main protein of this dish, it cooks up tender and juicy, absorbing all the flavors of the sauce beautifully.

Penne pasta: Ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce with its ridged surface and tube shape.

Cream cheese: The secret to that rich, silky texture. It melts perfectly into the sauce.

Cheddar cheese: Brings a bold and sharp contrast to the creaminess, enhancing every bite.

Bacon: Crispy, smoky, and salty, it adds texture and loads of flavor.

Ranch seasoning mix: Packs a punch with a mix of herbs and spices that define the “crack” flavor.

Garlic: A must-have for depth and that warm, savory undertone.

Chicken broth: It forms the flavorful base of the sauce and helps in cooking the pasta.

Heavy cream: Boosts the richness and helps blend all ingredients into a luscious sauce.

Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the elements together.

How to Make Delicious Crack Chicken Penne

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season your chicken breast with salt and black pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and slice into strips.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In the same skillet, add chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese, heavy cream, and ranch seasoning. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon. Stir everything together until well coated in the sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley or extra bacon if desired. Serve hot and enjoy immediately!

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of penne, don’t stress. Any short pasta like rigatoni, rotini, or even elbow macaroni works just fine. You can swap chicken breast for boneless chicken thighs if you prefer a more tender bite. Want to lighten things up? Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese or replace heavy cream with half-and-half.

For a spicy twist, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. And if bacon isn’t your thing, smoked turkey or crispy prosciutto are great alternatives. Vegetarian? Use plant-based bacon and chicken substitutes with vegetable broth.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

I usually pair this Delicious Crack Chicken Penne with something fresh and crunchy. A green salad with vinaigrette helps cut through the richness, and garlic bread or roasted asparagus makes it feel like a full feast.

If you’re serving it for guests, consider a chilled glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. It complements the creaminess without overpowering the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This pasta stores like a dream. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to bring back the creamy texture. A quick warm-up on the stovetop or in the microwave works perfectly.

You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as usual.

FAQs

How do I store leftover Delicious Crack Chicken Penne?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat with a bit of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Can I make Delicious Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the full recipe, then cool and store in the fridge. Reheat gently when ready to serve. Perfect for meal prepping.

What if I don’t have ranch seasoning for Delicious Crack Chicken Penne?

You can make your own using dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Or, substitute with a creamy Italian dressing mix.

Can I use a different type of pasta for Delicious Crack Chicken Penne?

Absolutely. Any short pasta shape like rotini or shells will work well with the sauce.

Is Delicious Crack Chicken Penne spicy?

Not by default, but you can add spice with red pepper flakes, cayenne, or even hot sauce if you want extra heat.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re in the mood for another comforting, creamy dish, don’t miss out on this Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce. It brings together all the goodness of cheesy pasta with hearty beef and a hint of Philly flair.

You might also fall for One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni if you enjoy one-skillet dinners with bold flavor.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this Delicious Crack Chicken Penne made your mouth water, don’t forget to pin it to your favorite Pinterest board so you can find it again easily.

Share it with friends and family on Facebook or save it to your recipe folder. Trust me, they’ll thank you for introducing them to this creamy, cheesy, comforting masterpiece!

Yield: 4 servings