When you’re craving comfort food that’s creamy, cheesy, and totally delicious, Crack Chicken Penne is the answer. This dish has become a go-to favorite for families and dinner parties alike, thanks to its savory combination of chicken, cheese, bacon, and ranch seasoning. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or planning a special meal, Crack Chicken Penne has all the flavors you love in one dish—and it’s super easy to make.
But what exactly makes Crack Chicken Penne so irresistible? It’s all in the creamy sauce made with ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and cream cheese, mixed with tender chicken and crispy bacon. The addition of penne pasta ensures each bite is packed with flavor, making it a meal that no one can resist.
In this recipe, we’ll show you how to make this dish from scratch, whether you’re cooking it on the stove top or in the crock pot. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to add extra flavor, adjust the recipe to your liking, and store leftovers. Ready to cook? Let’s dive into the full recipe!
Ingredients for Crack Chicken Penne
Before we get started, let’s gather the ingredients. This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that combine to make the creamy, cheesy magic happen. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Penne pasta | 12 ounces |
| Chicken breasts | 1 lb, cubed |
| Cream cheese | 8 ounces |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 1 cup |
| Ranch seasoning | 1 packet (1 ounce) |
| Bacon | 6 slices, cooked & crumbled |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1/2 cup |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley | For garnish (optional) |
Step-by-Step Directions for Making Crack Chicken Penne
Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s start cooking! This recipe can be made on the stove top or in a crock pot, so I’ll walk you through both methods to give you flexibility depending on your time and equipment.
Stove Top Method:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions (usually about 10-12 minutes). Make sure to cook it until it’s al dente—meaning slightly firm when you bite it—so it doesn’t get mushy when combined with the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Chicken: As the pasta cooks, heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook the chicken cubes until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This should take about 7-10 minutes. Once cooked, move the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, add the cream cheese and chicken broth. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth. Then, add the ranch seasoning and heavy cream, stirring until everything is well combined and creamy.
- Combine the Chicken, Bacon, and Pasta: Add the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon back to the skillet, then mix them into the sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta and mix everything together until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce.
- Add the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until it’s melted into the sauce, making it extra creamy and cheesy.
- Garnish and Serve: Once everything is well mixed, serve your crack chicken penne hot. Top with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and extra flavor.
Crock Pot Method:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Add the cubed chicken, cream cheese, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning into your crock pot. Stir everything together to combine.
- Cook on Low: Place the lid on the crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Finish the Dish: After the cooking time, shred the chicken with a fork and stir in the heavy cream. Add the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon, then sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Stir until everything is mixed and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Top with fresh parsley and serve your creamy, cheesy crack chicken penne while it’s hot.
Flavorful Toppings to Try
While crack chicken penne is delicious on its own, here are a few toppings you can try to make it even more special:
- Extra Cheese: Add a little more shredded cheddar cheese for a cheesier dish.
- Green Onions: Freshly chopped green onions can give the dish a little crunch and a burst of flavor.
- Bacon Bits: For even more bacon goodness, sprinkle extra bacon bits on top before serving.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add a bit of heat with red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Fresh Herbs: Chopped fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme can add a fresh and fragrant twist.
Tips for Making the Perfect Crack Chicken Penne
If you want your crack chicken penne to be perfect, keep these tips in mind:
- Cook the Pasta Al Dente: Overcooking the pasta will make it soggy when mixed with the creamy sauce. Al dente pasta holds its shape better, which is important for a good texture.
- Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains additives that can affect the melting process. Freshly shredded cheese will melt more smoothly into the sauce.
- Taste the Sauce: Always taste the sauce before mixing in the pasta. If you feel it needs more seasoning, feel free to add extra salt, pepper, or garlic powder.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, don’t overcrowd the pan. If you need to, cook the chicken in batches so it browns evenly and doesn’t steam.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is rich and filling, so you may want to balance it with lighter side dishes. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping in the creamy sauce.
- Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers complement the creamy pasta and add color to your meal.
- Steamed Asparagus: A few stalks of asparagus, lightly steamed and seasoned, add a touch of elegance.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
This dish is great for meal prep! Here’s the best way to store and reheat your leftovers:
- Store in the Refrigerator: Let the crack chicken penne cool, then move it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Freeze for Later: If you want to keep it for longer, freeze the leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over medium heat. Add a little extra cream or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce, if necessary.
Fun Variations of Crack Chicken Penne
This recipe is super versatile, and you can easily make changes based on your preferences. Here are some fun variations:
- Add Vegetables: Mix in spinach, broccoli, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.
- Spicy Crack Chicken Penne: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Use Different Cheeses: Try Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or Pepper Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Low-Carb Option: If you’re looking to reduce carbs, try using cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles in place of pasta.
- Vegan or Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cream cheese, dairy-free cheese, and a non-dairy alternative to heavy cream for a vegan version.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving for crack chicken penne (based on a 6-serving recipe):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 500 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 700mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Crack Chicken?
“Crack chicken” is a term used for dishes that are so delicious and addictive that they’re hard to stop eating. It usually consists of chicken, ranch seasoning, cheese, and bacon.
Can I make this in a Crock Pot?
Yes! For a crock pot version, just combine the chicken, broth, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning in the slow cooker, and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Add the cooked pasta, bacon, and cheese at the end, then stir to combine.
Can I make this recipe healthier?
You can make this recipe lighter by using reduced-fat cream cheese, low-fat cheese, and adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne?
Yes! This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Simply store it in an airtight container and heat it up when you’re ready to eat.
By following this simple and delicious crack chicken penne recipe, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy dinner that your whole family will love. It’s easy to make, super flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights or weekend get-togethers. Enjoy!