Crack Chicken Penne Recipe – Creamy, Cheesy & Addictively Delicious!
Get ready to indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this crack chicken penne recipe! This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is loaded with tender chicken, savory bacon, and a zesty ranch-infused sauce, creating an irresistible blend of flavors that’s perfect for family meals or gatherings. With a one-pan approach, it’s easy to make and guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Preparation
- Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain, then crumble into small pieces. Set aside. - Season and Sear the Chicken
In the same skillet, add olive oil. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and 1/2 of the ranch seasoning mix. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook over medium-high heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. - Cook the Pasta in Broth
In a large pot or deep skillet, add penne pasta and pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Cook until the pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed, about 12-15 minutes. - Make It Cheesy
Lower the heat to medium and add in the remaining ranch seasoning mix, shredded cheddar, and Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. - Combine Everything
Stir in the cooked chicken and half of the crumbled bacon, mixing until everything is well-coated in the sauce. - Garnish and Serve
Transfer to a serving dish (or serve right from the pot), garnishing with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley for color. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness of crack chicken penne!
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in spinach, diced bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for a colorful, nutritious addition.
- Different Cheeses: Swap in mozzarella, pepper jack, or a sharp white cheddar for unique flavor profiles.
Cooking Note
To prevent pasta from sticking or clumping, stir it occasionally while it cooks in the broth and cream. You may need to add a splash of milk if the sauce becomes too thick before the pasta reaches the desired tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
This crack chicken penne is perfect on its own, but pairs well with garlic bread, a green side salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips
- Save Time with Rotisserie Chicken: Use shredded rotisserie chicken to save on cooking time.
- Extra Creamy: For a silkier sauce, stir in a dollop of cream cheese when adding the shredded cheeses.
- Reheat Gently: Reheat leftovers over low heat, adding a bit of milk to bring back creaminess.
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 610
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Sodium: 980mg
FAQs
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta such as rotini, rigatoni, or farfalle will work well. - How do I make this dish lighter?
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half and use reduced-fat cheese to lighten the dish slightly. - Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes! Prepare the pasta and sauce ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Reheat on the stove, adding a bit of milk if necessary to restore creaminess.
Conclusion
This crack chicken penne is a delicious, creamy pasta recipe that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying a cozy night in. With its rich ranch-infused sauce, melty cheese, and bacon topping, it’s sure to be an instant favorite. Gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a bowl of this irresistible crack chicken penne tonight!