Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

There's nothing quite like the creamy, cheesy goodness of Crack Chicken Penne filling your kitchen with its irresistible aroma. This easy, family-friendly meal combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a rich ranch-infused sauce that clings perfectly to every bite of pasta.

this Recipe

I first stumbled upon this recipe when I needed a quick and comforting dinner after a long day. It instantly became a household favorite, requested weekly for its perfect blend of flavors and effortless preparation.

Why You'll Love This Crack Chicken Penne

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort meal. This Crack Chicken Penne isn't just delicious—it's a game-changer for busy families and pasta lovers alike.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Perfect for hectic weeknights!

This dish is also super budget-friendly. Using pantry staples like pasta, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning, you can create a restaurant-worthy dinner without breaking the bank.

And let’s not forget its crowd-pleasing flavors. The creamy, cheesy sauce, crispy bacon, and savory ranch seasoning make this dish an instant hit with both kids and adults.

Best of all, it’s highly customizable. Whether you prefer a little heat, extra veggies, or a different protein, this recipe can be easily adjusted to fit your cravings.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Crack Chicken Penne lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making this dish irresistibly creamy and satisfying.

Chicken is the star of this dish, and I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean and tender protein option. You can also swap in chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.

Bacon adds a smoky, crispy element that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Cook it until it’s golden and crunchy before adding it to the dish to get the best texture.

The sauce is a luxurious blend of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth. The cream cheese gives it a velvety texture, while the ranch seasoning infuses it with bold, tangy flavor.

Pasta choice matters! I love using penne because its tube shape holds onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Other great options include rigatoni or rotini.

Finally, a generous amount of cheddar cheese brings everything together. Opt for sharp cheddar for the best balance of creaminess and bold cheese flavor.

How To Make This Crack Chicken Penne

Creating this mouthwatering Crack Chicken Penne is simpler than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain it and set aside while you prepare the sauce.

While the pasta is cooking, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove it from the pan and set it on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving a bit of bacon grease in the pan for extra flavor.

Next, cook the chicken in the same skillet, seasoning it with salt, pepper, and a bit of garlic powder. Let it cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, then remove it and set it aside.

In the same pan, make the creamy sauce by adding the cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and most of the bacon to the skillet, stirring everything together so the sauce coats each piece of pasta. Sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top and let it melt into the dish.

Garnish with the remaining bacon and chopped parsley for a pop of freshness before serving. The result? A rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying meal in just about 30 minutes!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck! Crack Chicken Penne stores beautifully and makes for a delicious meal the next day.

For short-term storage, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating will restore its creamy consistency.

For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm it in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. If using a microwave, heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between to ensure even reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about Crack Chicken Penne is its flexibility. Here are a few ways to switch things up:

Want some spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a little kick.

Looking for a healthier twist? Use whole wheat pasta and swap the cream cheese for Greek yogurt to lighten up the dish.

For a low-carb version, substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash while keeping the creamy sauce and protein-rich toppings intact.

If you’re not a fan of chicken, swap it out for shrimp or turkey—both work beautifully in this recipe.

Vegetable lovers can stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to add more color and nutrients to the dish.

No matter how you customize it, this Crack Chicken Penne is bound to be a hit. Give it a try, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

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