As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling bacon filled the air, instantly transporting me back to cherished family gatherings. That’s when I decided to whip up a bowl of Crack Chicken Penne, a rich, creamy, and cheesy one-pot meal that’s become a staple in our home. Perfectly blending tender chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning, this dish is not only quick and easy to prepare, but it also promises minimal cleanup—making it a true lifesaver for busy weeknights. Serve it up, and watch as everyone reaches for seconds, delighting in its comforting indulgence. Are you ready to bring this family-favorite recipe into your kitchen?
Why is Crack Chicken Penne a Must-Try?
Unforgettable Taste: The delightful fusion of creamy sauce, savory chicken, and crispy bacon makes every bite simply irresistible.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy nights, you can whip this up in just one pot, making it a breeze to prepare.
Family-Friendly: With a flavor profile that appeals to everyone, kids and adults alike will be clamoring for more!
Customizable: Feel free to swap ingredients like pasta shape or bacon type to suit your dietary needs, whether you’re craving Zesty Southwest Chicken or looking to make it vegetarian.
Minimal Cleanup: Say goodbye to messy dishes; this recipe minimizes pots and pans, allowing you more time to relax after dinner.
This Crack Chicken Penne is sure to become a cherished favorite in your home!
Crack Chicken Penne Ingredients
• Get ready to dive into this delightful one-pot meal!
For the Pasta
- Penne Pasta – The backbone of this dish; feel free to switch to rotini or fusilli for a fun twist!
For the Protein
- Bacon – Adds a crispy, smoky flavor; turkey bacon is a lighter alternative if you prefer.
- Chicken Breast – Lean and tender; chicken thighs can substitute for a juicier option.
For the Flavor
- Ranch Seasoning – Provides a zesty punch; homemade ranch spices work wonderfully too!
- Chicken Broth – Enhances depth of flavor; opt for low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
For the Creamy Sauce
- Cream Cheese – Creates a luscious texture; swap with Greek yogurt for a lighter touch.
- Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully for added richness; consider mixing with Monterey Jack for a flavor lift.
For the Garnish
- Parsley – Fabulously fresh! Adds a pop of color; it’s optional but definitely brightens your dish.
Dive into this creamy Crack Chicken Penne and enjoy a meal that the whole family will love!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crack Chicken Penne
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the drippings in the pot for added flavor in your Crack Chicken Penne.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Drain excess bacon fat, keeping about 1 tablespoon in the pot to maintain moisture. Add bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for 3 minutes until they are lightly browned but not fully cooked. This step ensures juicy chicken in your delicious dish.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle ranch seasoning over the chicken, stirring well to coat each piece evenly. The ranch seasoning will infuse the crack chicken with zesty flavor, making this penne dish utterly delightful.
Step 4: Add Pasta and Broth
Pour in uncooked penne and the chicken broth, stirring everything together. Increase the heat to high, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil; this will combine all the flavors beautifully as it cooks.
Step 5: Simmer the Mixture
Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally until the penne is al dente and the chicken is fully cooked. The pasta will absorb the broth, creating a creamy sauce.
Step 6: Incorporate Cream Cheese
After the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and stir in blocks of cream cheese. Keep stirring until the cream cheese has melted completely, creating a rich, creamy sauce for your Crack Chicken Penne that will entice anyone.
Step 7: Mix in Bacon and Cheese
Add the crispy bacon and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese to the pot. Mix well until everything is evenly combined, and the cheese is melted, enhancing the creamy texture and decadent taste of this one-pot meal.
Step 8: Final Touches
Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top, cover, and let it cook for another 30 seconds until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Alternatively, broil for about 5 minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly finish, adding a delightful crisp to your Crack Chicken Penne.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
You can now serve your delicious Crack Chicken Penne! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. This creamy, cheesy dish is bound to impress at your dinner table.
Make Ahead Options
These Crack Chicken Penne are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the bacon and prepare the chicken (slicing and seasoning) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them separately in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can combine the uncooked penne and chicken broth in the pot—just make sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, cook everything together and stir in the cream cheese and cheese until melted for that creamy texture. Your dish will turn out just as delicious while saving you valuable time on busy weeknights!
What to Serve with One-Pot Crack Chicken Penne
Elevate your meal with delightful pairings that complement the rich, creamy goodness of your dish.
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Garlic Knots: These warm, buttery bites are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, making every bite savorier. They’re sure to please your family at the table!
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Tomato Basil Salad: The freshness of juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil offers a bright contrast to the creamy penne, balancing flavors beautifully. This salad adds a refreshing zing without overpowering the main dish.
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Steamed Broccoli: Adding a crunch to your meal, steamed broccoli brings a lovely texture and vital nutrients, enhancing your one-pot creation’s comfort and health value.
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Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing can balance the richness of Crack Chicken Penne while adding a satisfying crunch. A classic pairing that your family will love!
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Roasted Asparagus: Tender, slightly charred asparagus provides a lovely green element that complements the dish’s flavors while adding bursts of freshness.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc enhances the overall dining experience, its acidity cutting through the creaminess for a perfect pairing.
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Dessert – Chocolate Mousse: End your meal on a high note with a light, creamy dessert that echoes the smooth textures of your main dish, wrapping up dinner with indulgence.
Crack Chicken Penne Variations
Feel free to explore your culinary creativity with these delightful twists to make this dish your own!
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Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce for a fiery flavor boost that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Pasta Alternatives: Swap penne for gluten-free pasta or even spiralized zucchini noodles for a fresh, low-carb twist that still feels indulgent.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace bacon with plant-based alternatives or omit entirely to create a fulfilling vegetarian version of this rich dish.
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Enhanced Creaminess: Incorporate heavy cream with the cream cheese for an even silkier sauce that embraces the penne in delicious goodness.
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Cheese Variety: Mix in different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack instead of cheddar to elevate the flavor profile and add a hint of spice.
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Seasoned Chicken: Experiment with other seasoning blends like taco seasoning or Italian herbs instead of ranch for a unique flavor adventure.
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Savory Greens: Add a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost that adds beautiful color.
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Creamy Vegan Swap: Substitute cream cheese with cashew cream blended from soaked cashews for a plant-based creamy experience that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy, cheesy, or healthy, these variations allow you to make your Crack Chicken Penne truly unique, just like your family! For further inspiration, check out delicious options like Lemon Butter Chicken or the comforting Street Corn Chicken Casserole to diversify your meal lineup.
Expert Tips for Crack Chicken Penne
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Perfectly Browned Chicken: Ensure chicken is only lightly browned at the start to prevent dryness; it will fully cook while simmering with the pasta.
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Stir Occasionally: Remember to stir the pasta occasionally during simmering to prevent sticking. A gentle nudge helps keep everything creamy and delightful.
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Adjust Cooking Time: If you swap pasta shapes, be sure to adjust cooking time as needed; some types cook faster than penne.
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Add Kick with Spice: For a spicy twist, sprinkle chili flakes or cayenne pepper into the ranch seasoning for a flavorful boost in your Crack Chicken Penne.
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Store Wisely: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but ensure they cool completely before sealing.
How to Store and Freeze Crack Chicken Penne
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to preserve its creamy texture.
Freezer: You can freeze Crack Chicken Penne for up to 2 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, ensuring to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring in a splash of chicken broth to maintain creaminess.
Leftovers: For best taste and texture, try to consume within the recommended timeframes to enjoy the rich flavors of your Crack Chicken Penne!
Crack Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Crack Chicken Penne?
I recommend using chicken breast for its lean, tender qualities. However, chicken thighs can also be a great substitute if you’re looking for juiciness and robust flavor. The more the merrier when it comes to tender, flavorful chicken!
How do I store leftovers of my Crack Chicken Penne?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing to keep that creamy texture intact. If you’re planning to keep it longer, consider freezing!
Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne?
Absolutely! To freeze, portion the Crack Chicken Penne into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes. It can last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries at all! If your sauce ends up too thick after cooking, simply stir in a little bit of chicken broth or milk until it reaches your desired consistency. This is an easy fix that can save the day.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Great question! If you have dietary restrictions, you can swap the regular bacon for turkey bacon or even a plant-based alternative for a healthier or vegetarian option. Additionally, feel free to substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt to lighten the dish while still keeping it creamy!
How can I adjust the spice level of my Crack Chicken Penne?
If you’re looking to spice things up, adding chili flakes or cayenne pepper with the ranch seasoning is a delicious way to kick up the heat. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste, as every family has different spice tolerances!
Creamy Crack Chicken Penne That Will Wow Your Family
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven over medium heat, add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Drain excess bacon fat, keeping about 1 tablespoon in the pot. Add bite-sized chicken pieces and cook for 3 minutes until lightly browned.
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning over the chicken, stirring well to coat each piece evenly.
- Pour in uncooked penne and chicken broth, stirring everything together. Increase heat to high and bring to a gentle boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After the pasta is cooked, lower the heat and stir in blocks of cream cheese until melted.
- Add the crispy bacon and 1 ½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well until melted.
- Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top, cover, and let it cook for another 30 seconds.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
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