Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

There's nothing quite like the irresistible combination of creamy cheese, crispy bacon, and tender chicken in this Crack Chicken Penne. The first time I made this dish, my family was hooked after just one bite. The rich, cheesy sauce coats every piece of pasta perfectly, creating a meal that's both comforting and downright addictive.

this Recipe

If you're looking for a dinner that's easy to make, budget-friendly, and guaranteed to please, this recipe checks all the boxes. Made in just one pot, it minimizes cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a winner every time.

Why You'll Love This Crack Chicken Penne

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite pasta dish. This Crack Chicken Penne is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and smoky flavors, making it a true crowd-pleaser.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready in under 30 minutes. No need to spend hours in the kitchen—this meal comes together effortlessly.

Another reason to love this dish? It's budget-friendly! Using simple ingredients like chicken, pasta, cheese, and bacon, you can create a filling and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Plus, it's a one-pot wonder. That means fewer dishes to wash, which is always a win in my book. The pasta cooks right in the same pot as the sauce, absorbing all those incredible flavors along the way.

Finally, this recipe is endlessly versatile. You can customize it with different cheeses, swap out the protein, or even add some extra veggies to make it your own.

Ingredients Note

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

Chicken is the star of the show, and I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean and tender result. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier texture.

Bacon adds that irresistible smoky crunch. Cooking it until perfectly crispy enhances the overall flavor and provides a satisfying contrast to the creamy sauce.

Cream cheese is the secret ingredient that makes the sauce ultra-rich and creamy. It melts beautifully, creating a luxurious texture that clings to every bite of pasta.

Cheddar cheese brings a sharp, tangy depth to the sauce. Opt for freshly grated cheese for the best melt and flavor—pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the consistency.

Ranch seasoning gives this dish its signature "crack chicken" flavor. The combination of herbs and spices adds just the right amount of zest and savory goodness.

For cooking, all you need is a large pot or deep skillet to make the entire dish in one pan, saving both time and cleanup.

How To Make This Crack Chicken Penne

Making this deliciously creamy pasta dish is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps for a foolproof dinner that everyone will love.

Start by cooking your bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it's crispy and golden brown. Once done, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving a bit of the rendered fat in the pot for extra flavor.

Next, add the chicken, cut into bite-sized pieces, to the same pot. Sear the chicken until golden brown on the outside, then remove it from the pan and set it aside with the bacon.

In the same pot, pour in chicken broth and milk, then stir in the uncooked penne pasta. Let the pasta cook directly in the liquid, absorbing all the delicious flavors as it softens to the perfect texture.

Once the pasta is tender, lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese, shredded cheddar, and ranch seasoning. Stir continuously until everything melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Finally, return the cooked chicken and bacon to the pot, stirring everything together until well combined. Let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t likely with this addictive dish!), storing them properly will keep your Crack Chicken Penne tasting fresh.

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even better the next day!

For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

To reheat, simply warm the pasta on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak it to your liking. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Want to add some greens? Stir in spinach or broccoli at the end of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.

Looking for a spicy kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to amp up the heat.

Prefer a different protein? Swap out the chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken, turkey, or even cooked ground beef for a twist on the classic.

Experiment with different cheeses! While cheddar is a great choice, you can also try pepper jack for heat, mozzarella for extra creaminess, or gouda for a smoky flavor.

If you're cutting back on carbs, you can replace the penne pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles for a lower-carb version.

This Crack Chicken Penne is bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you're making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a meal prep favorite, you can’t go wrong with this creamy, cheesy, bacon-packed dish!

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