Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

Here's a deliciously creamy and comforting Crack Chicken Penne recipe that will have your family coming back for seconds. Imagine tender pasta coated in a rich, cheesy ranch sauce, studded with crispy bacon and shredded chicken—every bite is packed with flavor.

I first made this dish on a busy weeknight, looking for something hearty yet simple to throw together. The combination of ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, and bacon was an instant hit, and now it’s a staple in our dinner rotation.

Why You'll Love This Crack Chicken Penne

Get ready to add a new favorite to your weeknight dinner lineup. This Crack Chicken Penne is pure comfort food with minimal effort.

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a creamy, flavorful meal on the table in under 30 minutes.

This recipe is also budget-friendly. Using leftover rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts saves time and money while still delivering plenty of protein and flavor.

The taste is out of this world. The combination of creamy ranch sauce, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese creates an irresistible dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder. Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, making this an ideal meal for busy nights.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish comes from its simple, flavorful ingredients. Each one contributes to the rich, creamy texture and bold taste.

Penne pasta is the perfect choice for this dish. Its sturdy shape holds up well to the thick, cheesy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. You can also use rotini or rigatoni if you prefer.

Chicken is the star protein here. Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken makes this dish incredibly easy, but you can also cook and shred chicken breasts or thighs. If you're in a rush, canned chicken can work as a last-minute substitute.

Ranch seasoning mix gives this dish its signature flavor. It adds a tangy, herby kick that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. If you prefer a homemade version, a mix of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley works well.

Cheddar cheese provides the perfect melty, gooey texture. Sharp cheddar adds a bolder flavor, but mild cheddar, Colby Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend also work well. Always shred your cheese fresh for the smoothest melt.

Bacon takes this dish to the next level. Crispy, crumbled bacon adds a smoky, salty bite that balances the richness of the sauce. Cooking the bacon fresh delivers the best flavor, but store-bought bacon bits work in a pinch.

A large skillet or pot is essential for cooking everything in one pan, making cleanup easier.

How To Make This Crack Chicken Penne

This dish comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for a quick and easy meal.

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the penne pasta until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water, and set it aside. The starchy pasta water will help create a silky sauce later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving a bit of bacon grease in the pan for extra flavor.

In the same skillet, add shredded chicken and ranch seasoning, stirring to coat everything evenly. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for a couple of minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until fully melted into a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Finally, toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, stirring until fully coated in the cheesy sauce. Sprinkle the crispy bacon over the top and give everything a final stir before serving.

From start to finish, this meal takes about 25 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy nights when you want something hearty and satisfying.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, they store beautifully for easy reheating later.

For the best results, keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.

To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.

Variations and Substitutions

This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing you to tweak the ingredients to fit your taste and dietary needs.

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt. The sauce will still be creamy but with fewer calories.

Want to add some vegetables? Stir in spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli for extra nutrition and texture.

If you prefer spicier flavors, mix in a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to give the dish a little heat. Pepper Jack cheese is another great way to add a kick.

For a low-carb option, replace the pasta with cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles. The creamy ranch sauce still works beautifully with these alternatives.

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses, proteins, and add-ins to make this dish your own. However you prepare it, this Crack Chicken Penne is sure to become a family favorite!

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