Irresistible Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy, Cheesy & Loaded with Flavor!

Crack Chicken Penne is an irresistible combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, ranch seasoning, and a creamy cheese sauce all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This dish is an easy-to-make comfort food that will have everyone at the table coming back for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. In this article, we’ll cover everything from step-by-step instructions to helpful tips, variations, and frequently asked questions.

Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

• Packed with Flavor – The combination of ranch seasoning, bacon, and cheese makes this dish incredibly delicious.
• Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and quick steps, you’ll have this dish ready in under 30 minutes.
• Creamy & Cheesy – The rich sauce is made with cream cheese, cheddar, and mozzarella for a luscious texture.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – This recipe reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers.
• Family-Friendly – Kids and adults alike will love this indulgent pasta dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this crack chicken penne at home:

Main Ingredients:

• 12 ounces penne pasta – Holds the sauce well and provides a satisfying bite.
• 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and flavor to the chicken.
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced – A lean protein base for the dish.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – Adds depth and a mild sweetness.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Brings out the flavors of the dish.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – A touch of warmth and spice.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – Creates a creamy, velvety texture.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Brings a sharp, cheesy bite.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Melts beautifully for a gooey texture.
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled – Adds a delicious crunch and smoky flavor.
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream or milk – Helps create the luscious sauce.
• ½ cup chicken broth – Enhances the savory depth of the sauce.
• 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix – The key ingredient that ties all the flavors together.
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish) – Adds a fresh finishing touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add diced chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly golden.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and stir in cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning, stirring continuously until everything is smooth and well combined.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Fold in the cooked penne pasta and crumbled bacon, stirring until the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy this decadent, cheesy pasta!

Tips for the Best Crack Chicken Penne

• Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains additives that can prevent smooth melting.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – Cooking it al dente ensures it doesn’t become mushy in the sauce.
• Adjust the consistency – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk.
• Add veggies – Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers make a great addition.
• Make it spicier – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.

Variations to Try

• Low-Carb Version – Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Spicy Buffalo Version – Add a tablespoon of buffalo sauce for a tangy kick.
• Extra Protein – Mix in cooked shredded rotisserie chicken for added protein.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

2. Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne?

Yes, but dairy-based sauces can change texture when frozen. If freezing, let it cool completely, store in a freezer-safe container, and reheat with extra milk or broth.

3. What can I serve with Crack Chicken Penne?

It pairs well with garlic bread, roasted veggies, or a simple green salad.

4. Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Rotini, rigatoni, or farfalle work great.

5. Can I make this without bacon?

Yes! You can omit the bacon or replace it with turkey bacon for a leaner option.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Penne is the ultimate cheesy, creamy, and flavor-packed pasta dish that everyone will love. With its bold flavors, crispy bacon, ranch seasoning, and rich cheese sauce, this meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or special occasions. The best part? It’s quick and easy to make, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish. Try this delicious comfort food today, and enjoy every cheesy, bacon-filled bite!

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