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Crack Chicken Penne Comfort Pasta

Crack Chicken Penne Comfort Pasta: A Family Favorite Delight

Crack Chicken Penne Comfort Pasta is a creamy, versatile family favorite that transforms weeknight dinners into cozy feasts.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Penne Pasta Use gluten-free penne for dietary restrictions.
For the Chicken and Sauce
  • 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Consider pre-cooked chicken for quicker prep.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Neufchâtel is a lighter option.
  • 10.5 oz Cream of Chicken Soup Look for gluten-free if needed.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian twist.
  • 1 pack Ranch Seasoning Mix Make your own for fresher taste.
For the Flavor
  • 6 oz Smoked Bacon Swap in turkey bacon for a healthier version.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots work as a milder alternative.
  • 1 tsp Salt Adjust according to broth’s saltiness.
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper White pepper can be used for a subtler bite.
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Shredded Colby Jack Cheese Cheddar or Monterey Jack make great substitutes.
  • 2 tbsp Chopped Fresh Parsley Adds freshness and color.

Equipment

  • Large skillet

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. In a large skillet, heat over medium heat and add diced smoked bacon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until crispy and golden, allowing the fat to render out. Once done, transfer the bacon to a paper towel to drain excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons of drippings in the skillet.
  2. In the same skillet, add cubed boneless skinless chicken breasts and season with salt and black pepper. Sauté alongside diced yellow onion for about 5-6 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and the onion is translucent.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the chicken and onions. Add the uncooked penne pasta to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer and cover. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
  4. Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup. Mix until everything is combined, creating a smooth sauce. Toss in half of the shredded cheese and cooked bacon, stirring until the cheese melts into the sauce.
  5. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the dish, then cover the skillet. Let it sit for 3-5 minutes off the heat to allow the cheese to melt.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat, garnish with crispy bacon and parsley, and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Avoid freezing as the creamy sauce may separate.

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