Creamy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible, Crack Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food that satisfies every craving. This dish brings together tender penne pasta, savory shredded chicken, smoky bacon, and a rich cream cheese ranch sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or a cozy meal at home, this recipe is as indulgent as it gets.
Why This Recipe Works
Versatile Flavors: The creamy ranch-flavored sauce pairs beautifully with chicken, bacon, and cheddar cheese for a classic combination.
One-Skillet Sauce: The sauce is made in one skillet, cutting down on cleanup while infusing rich flavors.
Comfort Food Favorite: With its creamy texture, smoky bacon, and cheesy goodness, it’s a dish that appeals to all ages.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you need a hearty meal.
Ingredients Overview
Pasta Base
Penne Pasta: Penne is perfect for holding the creamy sauce, but you can substitute with rotini, rigatoni, or even spaghetti if desired.
Protein and Additions
Shredded Cooked Chicken: Rotisserie chicken works perfectly for convenience, or you can use any cooked chicken breast or thighs.
Bacon: Adds a smoky, crispy element that complements the creaminess of the dish.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar enhances the dish with bold, cheesy flavor.
Rich Creamy Sauce
Cream Cheese: The foundation of the creamy sauce, softened to blend smoothly.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: Provides the signature tangy and herby flavor.
Chicken Broth and Heavy Cream: Create a luscious, smooth sauce with just the right consistency.
Garlic and Onion: Aromatics that add depth and balance to the richness of the sauce.
Seasonings and Garnishes
Salt, Pepper, and Fresh Parsley: Simple yet effective finishing touches for flavor and presentation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Penne Pasta
Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside. The salted water enhances the pasta’s flavor, so don’t skip this step!
- Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until translucent and fragrant. This will form the flavor base for the sauce.
- Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low and add the cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until it melts into a smooth consistency. Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix and mix thoroughly.
- Add Liquids
Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream while stirring to create a creamy, cohesive sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Incorporate Cheese and Chicken
Add the shredded cheddar cheese, shredded chicken, and half of the cooked bacon to the skillet. Stir well until the cheese is fully melted and the chicken is heated through.
- Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the remaining bacon and fresh parsley over the top for a finishing touch. Serve warm and enjoy!
Tips for Recipe Success
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can have additives that prevent smooth melting, so shred your cheese fresh for the creamiest results.
Don’t Overcook Pasta: Slightly undercook the pasta (al dente) before adding it to the sauce, as it will continue to cook while absorbing the creamy goodness.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little kick.
Substitutions:
Swap penne for gluten-free pasta or whole wheat pasta if preferred.
Turkey bacon can be used for a leaner option.
Greek yogurt or sour cream can replace cream cheese for a tangier sauce.
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Crack Chicken Penne is a complete dish on its own, but you can pair it with sides to create a fuller meal:
Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness.
Garlic Bread: Add crusty garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks for a hearty accompaniment.
Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus complement the creamy flavors.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce’s consistency.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup
Calories: 689 kcal
Protein: 38g
Fat: 37g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 1050mg
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and just 35 minutes total, this is an ideal weeknight dinner option.
Comfort Food Classic: The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with pasta and bacon makes it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Customizable: Adjust ingredients to your preferences, making it as rich or light as you’d like.
Final Thoughts
Crack Chicken Penne is a dream dish that combines creamy indulgence, hearty pasta, and bold flavors in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weekday dinner or a comforting meal for a cozy night in, this recipe delivers satisfaction every time.
Whip up this dish today, and watch as it becomes a household favorite! Happy cooking!