Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy, and utterly addictive pasta dish packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and ranch seasoning. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a comforting and satisfying meal in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot meal – Less cleanup and minimal effort.
• Packed with flavor – Creamy cheese, savory bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning make this dish irresistible.
• Family-friendly – A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults.
• Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Customizable – Easily adaptable with different cheeses, proteins, or added veggies.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breast, diced
• Penne pasta
• Chicken broth
• Cream cheese
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Heavy cream or milk
• Green onions for garnish (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the chicken – In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook diced chicken breast over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Add pasta and broth – Pour in the chicken broth and penne pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
3. Incorporate the creamy elements – Stir in the cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and heavy cream. Mix well until the cream cheese is fully melted and combined.
4. Add cheese and bacon – Sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
5. Garnish and serve – Top with green onions if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Different Cheese – Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a twist.
• Vegetable Boost – Mix in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Alternate Protein – Substitute chicken with turkey, shrimp, or tofu.
• Low-Carb Option – Swap penne pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or heavy cream to restore creaminess. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy?

Cook the pasta just until al dente and avoid overcooking.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, rotini, rigatoni, or bowtie pasta work well in this recipe.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours, adding the pasta in the last 30 minutes.

Is there a dairy-free alternative?

Use dairy-free cream cheese, almond milk, and vegan cheese substitutes.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover shredded chicken works great.

What can I serve with Crack Chicken Penne?

Pair it with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes, or add a bit of cornstarch slurry.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the ranch seasoning is gluten-free.

How do I make it less salty?

Opt for low-sodium broth and use less ranch seasoning.

Can I add extra protein?

Yes, mix in cooked sausage, ham, or additional chicken.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to prepare and incredibly delicious. With its creamy, cheesy texture and bold flavors, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a meal-prep option, this recipe is sure to satisfy!

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