After a whirlwind of hectic schedules and takeout crises, I found myself yearning for something more comforting than fast food. It was during one of those busy evenings when I decided to embrace the simple joys of home cooking. Enter Crack Chicken Penne—a dish that’s not just a feast for the taste buds but also a remarkable solution to weeknight dilemmas.
Imagine the rich aroma of smoky bacon dancing with tender chicken, harmonizing together under a creamy blanket of cheese and ranch flavor. The moment you take a bite, you’re enveloped in warmth and satisfaction, instantly transforming your dinner into a cozy gathering moment.
What makes this recipe truly special is how effortlessly it fits into your routine. With just 40 minutes from start to finish, you’ll impress your family or guests without the usual fuss. Trust me—after one delicious serving, they’ll be asking for seconds! This dish marries taste and convenience, beckoning you to step away from bland pre-packaged meals and into a world of rich flavors found right in your kitchen. Ready to dig in? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Crack Chicken Penne a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavor: The combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and creamy cheese creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist.
Quick and easy: With a total time of just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to serve a gourmet dish without the hassle.
Family-approved: It’s a crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will love, making it an ideal addition to your dinner rotation.
Comfort in every bite: Each spoonful wraps you in creamy, hearty comfort, perfect for cozy nights at home.
Versatility: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or switch up the cheese, making this recipe endlessly adaptable.
If you enjoy simple yet delicious dinners, be sure to check out our easy pasta recipes for more inspiration!
Crack Chicken Penne Ingredients
For the Pasta Dish
• Smoked bacon – adds a deliciously crispy texture and a smoky flavor.
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts – tender protein that soaks up the ranch seasoning beautifully.
• Chopped yellow onion – brings a savory sweetness to balance the dish.
• Salt – enhances all the flavors in this creamy masterpiece.
• Black pepper – adds a subtle kick of warmth.
• Ranch seasoning – the secret ingredient that ties the flavors together in this Crack Chicken Penne.
• Unsalted chicken stock – provides a rich base for cooking the pasta and chicken.
• Penne pasta – holds the creamy sauce perfectly for every satisfying bite.
• Cream cheese – creates a luscious, creamy texture that transforms the dish into a comfort food dream.
• Cream of chicken soup – adds depth and a rich flavor to each serving.
• Colby jack cheese (shredded) – melts beautifully and adds an irresistible cheesy finish.
• Fresh chopped parsley – for a pop of color and freshness on top of your finished dish.
How to Make Crack Chicken Penne
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Cook the Bacon: In a large 12-inch skillet, on medium heat, add the diced bacon. Cook for 9-11 minutes or until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving ¼ cup for garnish.
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Prep the Skillet: Drain off all but 2 tablespoons of the luscious bacon grease from the skillet. This will help flavor the chicken!
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Brown the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken breasts, diced onion, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned and fragrant.
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Add the Pasta: Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning and pour in the chicken stock. Bring everything to a boil, then stir in the penne pasta. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, checking for tender pasta.
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Mix the Creamy Ingredients: Remove the lid and stir in the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup until fully combined, creating a creamy base.
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Incorporate Cheese and Bacon: Add 1½ cups of shredded Colby jack cheese, the cooked bacon pieces (except for the reserved ¼ cup), and 1 tablespoon of parsley. Stir to combine and enjoy the melting cheese!
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Melt More Cheese: Top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded Colby jack cheese, leaving it on top (do not stir in). Cover for 3-4 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
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Garnish and Serve: Garnish with the reserved ¼ cup of bacon and the remaining 1 tablespoon of parsley right before serving.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of extra parsley for freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Crack Chicken Penne?
Picture a comforting dinner spread, where each dish beautifully complements the creamy goodness of your main course.
- Garlic Bread: This warm, buttery delight adds a crunchy contrast that’s perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine and creamy dressing create a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the Crack Chicken Penne.
- Steamed Broccoli: A vibrant and healthy side, its bright green color adds visual appeal while the slight crunch offers a satisfying texture.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges deliver a delightful nutty flavor that pairs meticulously with the savory chicken and bacon.
- Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and cheesy, they mirror the richness of the pasta, enveloping your taste buds in comfort with each bite.
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine enhances the dish’s flavors, making each bite feel like a special occasion.
- Chocolate Cake: End your meal on a sweet note; the rich chocolatey layers bring joy and decadence—truly a match made in heaven.
- Apple Crisp: Warm, spiced fruit that’s not overly sweet offers a homey dessert option to transition from savory to sweet delightfully.
How to Store and Freeze Crack Chicken Penne
Fridge: Store leftover Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Make sure to use freezer-safe containers to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the microwave or stovetop until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
Wrap for Freshness: If you plan to refrigerate or freeze, press a layer of plastic wrap against the surface of the dish before sealing to minimize air exposure.
Make Ahead Options
Crack Chicken Penne is a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can cook the bacon and chicken mixture up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy cheese base (cream cheese and cream of chicken soup) to mix in just before serving, which helps maintain that velvety texture. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the mixture in a skillet over medium heat, stir in the cheese, and finish cooking the penne until tender, ensuring you have a delicious, comforting dish with less fuss. Trust me, it’ll be just as delightful when you’re ready to serve!
Expert Tips for Crack Chicken Penne
• Bacon Crispy Check: Ensure your bacon is crispy before removing it; this adds key flavor and texture to the dish.
• Chicken Browning: Avoid overcrowding the skillet when browning the chicken. This ensures even cooking and a nice sear.
• Ranch Flavor Boost: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a bit more ranch seasoning according to personal taste—just don’t overdo it!
• Cheese Melting Trick: If your cheese isn’t melting as desired, cover it for a couple extra minutes to help with the creamy consistency.
• Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container for up to 3 days; it reheats beautifully for a satisfying lunch!
Crack Chicken Penne Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists that elevate your homemade experience even further!
- Dairy-Free: Swap cream cheese for coconut cream and use dairy-free cheese for a lighter, non-dairy version. Enjoy the creamy essence without the dairy!
- Extra Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers or spinach while cooking the chicken for an extra boost of nutrition and color. These additions not only enhance flavors but also brighten up the dish.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to bring a delightful heat to each bite. The added spice will awaken your taste buds!
- Whole Wheat Pasta: Substitute regular penne with whole wheat for a fiber-rich alternative that keeps the dish hearty but light. It’s a small change with big benefits!
- Herb Infusion: Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary instead of parsley for an aromatic twist that layers in new flavors. The herby touch adds freshness and depth.
- BBQ Twist: Drizzle with BBQ sauce before melting the cheese for a sweet and smoky flavor profile. This unexpected twist takes comfort food to a whole new level!
- Protein Boost: Add cooked lentils or chickpeas along with the chicken for an extra punch of protein and heartiness. It transforms the dish into a fulfilling feast!
- Nutty Garnish: Sprinkle toasted pine nuts or walnuts on top before serving for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy chicken. This delightful crunch makes every bite memorable!
Crack Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for Crack Chicken Penne?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this recipe. They have a mild flavor that absorbs the delicious ranch seasoning beautifully and cook evenly, resulting in tender and juicy pieces.
How should I store leftover Crack Chicken Penne?
After serving, place any leftover Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cooled before sealing to maintain its creamy texture!
Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne?
Absolutely! For longer storage, you can freeze Crack Chicken Penne in individual portions. Use freezer-safe containers, and it will stay good for up to 3 months. To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into containers. Don’t forget to label each with the date for easy tracking!
What should I do if my cheese isn’t melting properly?
If your cheese doesn’t seem to be melting as desired, don’t worry! Simply cover the dish for an additional couple of minutes. This helps trap steam, creating a warm environment for the cheese to melt perfectly. You could also try grating the cheese finely to help it melt faster.
Can I customize this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Yes! If anyone has a cheese allergy, feel free to substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative. For gluten-free options, use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure that your ranch seasoning is also gluten-free. The more the merrier—adapt the dish to your family’s needs!
What if my pasta is overcooked?
If you accidentally overcooked the penne and it’s mushy, don’t fret! You can turn it into a creamy casserole by placing it in a baking dish, topping it with extra cheese, and baking at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to create a lovely crust on top!
Creamy Crack Chicken Penne That Will Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large 12-inch skillet, on medium heat, add the diced bacon. Cook for 9-11 minutes or until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving ¼ cup for garnish.
- Drain off all but 2 tablespoons of the luscious bacon grease from the skillet.
- Add the cubed chicken breasts, diced onion, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned and fragrant.
- Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning and pour in the chicken stock. Bring everything to a boil, then stir in the penne pasta. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, checking for tender pasta.
- Remove the lid and stir in the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup until fully combined, creating a creamy base.
- Add 1½ cups of shredded Colby jack cheese, the cooked bacon pieces (except for the reserved ¼ cup), and 1 tablespoon of parsley. Stir to combine and enjoy the melting cheese!
- Top with the remaining ½ cup of shredded Colby jack cheese, leaving it on top (do not stir in). Cover for 3-4 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
- Garnish with the reserved ¼ cup of bacon and the remaining 1 tablespoon of parsley right before serving.
