Crack Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food dish that combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and melty cheddar with perfectly cooked penne pasta. Every bite is creamy, savory, and absolutely addictive—hence the name! It’s a one-pot-style meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to treat yourself to something indulgent and satisfying. This dish has all the flavors of the beloved crack chicken recipe but elevated into a hearty pasta dinner that’s ready in around 30 minutes. It’s family-friendly, perfect for leftovers, and guaranteed to become a weeknight regular.
What Makes This Dish Special?
Crack Chicken Penne brings together some of the most irresistible ingredients—cheese, bacon, ranch, and chicken—in one creamy, filling dish. What sets it apart is the balance of textures and flavors: crispy bacon, tender pasta, juicy chicken, and that rich, creamy sauce. It’s easy to customize and scalable for a crowd, making it great for both cozy nights in and potluck gatherings.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon and Chicken
In a large skillet or deep pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Discard most of the bacon grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
Add diced chicken to the pan, season with a little salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
2. Add Cream Base Ingredients
Add the softened cream cheese to the pan with the chicken and stir until melted and creamy. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and ranch seasoning. Stir to combine into a smooth sauce.
3. Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked penne directly into the sauce. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
4. Finish the Dish
Once the pasta is fully cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and most of the cooked bacon (reserving some for topping). Mix until everything is well coated and melty. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
5. Garnish and Serve
Serve hot, topped with the remaining bacon and chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, broccoli, or peas near the end of cooking.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or roasted veggies instead of pasta.
- Cheese Swap: Try Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a twist.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or deep sauté pan
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater (for cheese, if not pre-shredded)
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: ~560
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 34g
- Protein: 28g
- Sugar: 4g
Nutrition will vary based on specific brands and substitutions.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to the cream cheese base, which may separate upon thawing.
My Cooking Experience
After years in the kitchen, few dishes have earned a permanent spot in my rotation like Crack Chicken Penne. It’s one of those meals that satisfies every time, and the best part? It all comes together in a single pan. I love how easily it can be tailored with different veggies, spice levels, or cheeses—and it always gets rave reviews, especially from kids and pasta lovers.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Penne is a rich, comforting, and flavor-packed dinner that delivers on all fronts. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it’s a delicious way to turn everyday pantry staples into something special. Make it once, and you’ll be hooked!
crack chicken penne
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet or deep pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Discard most of the bacon grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pan.
- Add diced chicken to the pan, season with a little salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds.
- Add the softened cream cheese to the pan with the chicken and stir until melted and creamy. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and ranch seasoning. Stir to combine into a smooth sauce.
- Add the uncooked penne directly into the sauce. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
- Once the pasta is fully cooked, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and most of the cooked bacon (reserving some for topping). Mix until everything is well coated and melty. Adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, topped with the remaining bacon and chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to the cream cheese base, which may separate upon thawing.
