Crack Chicken Penne Recipe: Creamy, Cheesy, and Irresistible

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that comes together in no time, this Crack Chicken Penne Recipe is your answer. Packed with creamy cheese, tender chicken, smoky bacon, and the perfect touch of ranch seasoning, this dish is a crowd-pleaser for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The best part? It’s all made in one pot, saving you time and cleanup. Let’s get started and bring this flavor-packed dish to your dinner table!

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What is Crack Chicken Penne?

“Crack Chicken” gets its name from its addictively good combination of ingredients: shredded chicken, creamy ranch dressing, cheese, and bacon. When paired with perfectly cooked penne pasta, the dish becomes a rich, comforting masterpiece. It’s creamy, savory, and has just the right amount of tanginess to keep you coming back for more.

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Ingredients for Crack Chicken Penne

Here’s what you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

Main Ingredients:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 1 pound, diced
• Penne pasta: 12 ounces
• Chicken broth: 4 cups
• Ranch seasoning mix: 1 packet (about 1 ounce)
• Cream cheese: 8 ounces, softened
• Shredded cheddar cheese: 2 cups
• Cooked bacon: 6 slices, crumbled
• Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
• Salt and black pepper: To taste
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

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Essential Kitchen Equipment

Make sure to have these tools ready:

• A large pot or deep skillet (with a lid)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Crack Chicken Penne

1. Cook the Chicken

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and sauté until fully cooked (about 5–7 minutes). Remove the chicken and set aside.

2. Prepare the Base

• In the same pot, pour in the chicken broth and stir in the ranch seasoning mix. Bring it to a gentle boil.

3. Cook the Pasta

• Add the penne pasta directly into the pot with the broth. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Create the Sauce

• Once the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, stir in the softened cream cheese until melted and creamy.

5. Combine Everything

• Add the cooked chicken back into the pot, along with the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Stir well to coat everything in the rich, creamy sauce.

6. Serve and Garnish

• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, and serve hot.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Crack Chicken Penne

• Soften the cream cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature to make mixing easier.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Stop cooking when it’s al dente to avoid mushy texture, as it will continue absorbing the sauce.
• Use fresh cheese: Shred your cheese from a block for a smoother melt and better flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the chicken: Dice the chicken into uniform pieces and cook only until it’s no longer pink. Overcooked chicken can become dry.
2. Skipping stirring: Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
3. Too much liquid: If your sauce looks watery, simmer uncovered for a few minutes to thicken it.

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Serving Suggestions

Crack Chicken Penne is a meal on its own, but you can elevate it further by pairing it with:

• A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini.
• Garlic bread or a side of homemade dinner rolls for an extra indulgence.

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Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Storage:

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

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Variations and Recipe Swaps

• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
• Vegetarian option: Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Low-carb version: Use cooked zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of penne pasta.
• Extra cheesy: Mix in a handful of mozzarella or pepper jack cheese for even more indulgence.

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FAQs About Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the entire dish ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Just be sure to add a little broth or milk to prevent the pasta from drying out.

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Simply skip the step of cooking the chicken.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can freeze it. Allow it to cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

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Conclusion

This Crack Chicken Penne Recipe is the perfect one-pot dinner that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory chicken and bacon. It’s easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

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