Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

There's nothing quite like the creamy, cheesy goodness of Crack Chicken Penne to bring comfort to your dinner table. This irresistible dish combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a rich, ranch-flavored sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. It's the kind of meal that has everyone going back for seconds (or even thirds!).

this Recipe

I first stumbled upon this recipe on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick but satisfying. With just a handful of simple ingredients, it turned out to be a game-changer—one of those dishes that instantly became a family favorite. Now, it's in our regular rotation, perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or anytime we need a cozy, indulgent meal.

Why You'll Love This Crack Chicken Penne

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite weeknight dinner! This Crack Chicken Penne isn't just mouthwatering—it’s a lifesaver for busy cooks everywhere.

First off, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in about 30 minutes. No fancy techniques or complicated steps required!

It’s also budget-friendly. Using affordable ingredients like pasta, chicken, and cream cheese, this dish proves that you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy a satisfying meal.

And let's talk about the flavor—the combination of ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, and melty cheese creates a sauce so addictive, you’ll want to drizzle it over everything.

Lastly, it’s perfect for meal prep. The leftovers store beautifully and reheat like a dream, making it an ideal make-ahead meal for busy schedules.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Crack Chicken Penne lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making this dish absolutely irresistible.

Penne Pasta serves as the base of this dish, holding onto the creamy sauce with its ridges. While you can use any pasta shape, penne works best for a hearty, satisfying bite.

Chicken Breast is my go-to protein for this recipe. It stays juicy and tender when cooked properly, but you can also swap it for chicken thighs if you prefer extra richness.

Bacon adds a smoky, savory depth to the dish. Cooking the chicken in the bacon drippings infuses every bite with incredible flavor.

Cream Cheese is the secret to the ultra-creamy sauce. It melts beautifully into the dish, creating a smooth, luscious texture that coats every piece of pasta.

Ranch Seasoning gives this dish its signature “crack” flavor. You can use a store-bought packet, but if you have time, homemade ranch seasoning takes it to the next level.

You’ll also need a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta, making cleanup a breeze!

How To Make This Crack Chicken Penne

Creating this mouthwatering dish is easier than you might think. Let’s break it down step by step!

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, then drain and set it aside. While the pasta is cooking, you can prepare the rest of the dish.

In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set it on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about a tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan for extra flavor.

Next, season the chicken with a bit of salt, pepper, and half of the ranch seasoning. Cook the chicken in the same skillet until golden brown and fully cooked, then transfer it to a plate.

In the same pan, add the cream cheese, chicken broth, and remaining ranch seasoning. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts into a smooth, velvety sauce. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until fully combined.

Finally, return the cooked chicken, crispy bacon, and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for a minute or two to absorb all the flavors, then serve immediately.

Storage Options

This Crack Chicken Penne is just as delicious the next day! Here’s how to store it properly.

For short-term storage, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce thickens as it sits, but a splash of milk or broth will bring it back to life when reheating.

If you want to freeze it, transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove over low heat.

To reheat, warm it up in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. If using the microwave, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to prevent the sauce from separating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility! Here are a few ways to switch things up:

For a low-carb version, swap the penne pasta for cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with both.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes or stir in some chopped jalapeños for a zesty twist.

To make it even more indulgent, mix in extra shredded cheese or top it with a sprinkle of parmesan before serving.

You can also use rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time. Simply shred the cooked chicken and add it to the sauce for an even faster meal.

For a healthier twist, substitute Greek yogurt for part of the cream cheese to lighten up the dish while still keeping it creamy.

No matter how you customize it, this Crack Chicken Penne is sure to be a hit. Enjoy experimenting and making it your own!

Print