Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

There's nothing quite like a creamy, cheesy pasta dish to bring everyone to the dinner table. Crack Chicken Penne is a rich and flavorful meal, loaded with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a luscious ranch-seasoned sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights when you need something hearty and satisfying.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when looking for ways to jazz up leftover rotisserie chicken. With just a handful of pantry staples, I created a dish so addictive that my family now requests it on a regular basis. If you love the irresistible combination of ranch, bacon, and cheese, this dish is about to become a new favorite.

Why You'll Love This Crack Chicken Penne

Get ready to fall head over heels for this indulgent, flavor-packed pasta dish. Crack Chicken Penne is the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, making it impossible to resist.

First, it's quick and easy to make. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table with minimal effort. It’s a one-pot wonder that simplifies cleanup without sacrificing flavor.

This recipe is also incredibly budget-friendly. Using simple ingredients like chicken, pasta, and cheese, you can feed a hungry family without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken and stretch your grocery budget further.

Another reason to love this dish? It’s endlessly versatile. You can swap out the protein, adjust the seasoning, or even toss in some extra veggies to customize it to your liking. Whether you're cooking for picky eaters or adventurous foodies, Crack Chicken Penne is a guaranteed hit.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Crack Chicken Penne lies in its carefully selected ingredients. Each component contributes to the dish's creamy texture and bold flavor profile.

Penne pasta serves as the perfect base. Its sturdy shape holds up well to the rich, cheesy sauce, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor. If you don’t have penne on hand, rotini or rigatoni work just as well.

Chicken adds protein and heartiness to the dish. Rotisserie chicken is a time-saving option, but you can also use cooked and shredded chicken breasts or thighs. If you're short on time, pre-cooked grilled chicken strips are a great alternative.

Bacon brings a crispy, smoky contrast to the creamy sauce. Cook it until perfectly crisp, then crumble it over the pasta for an irresistible crunch. If you want to lighten things up, turkey bacon is a great substitution.

Cream cheese and cheddar cheese create the ultra-creamy sauce that makes this dish so indulgent. For the best results, use freshly shredded cheddar rather than pre-packaged cheese, which can contain anti-caking agents that affect melting.

Ranch seasoning is the secret ingredient that ties everything together. Its combination of herbs and spices adds a punch of flavor without the need for extra seasonings. If you prefer homemade, a mix of dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder will do the trick.

How To Make This Crack Chicken Penne

Making Crack Chicken Penne is a breeze, and it all comes together in just a few simple steps.

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, then drain and set it aside. While the pasta cooks, prepare the other ingredients to streamline the process.

In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden. Remove it from the pan and let it drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about a tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet for extra flavor.

Next, add the shredded chicken to the skillet and warm it through. Stir in the cream cheese, letting it melt into the chicken to form a smooth, rich base for the sauce. Add the ranch seasoning and stir well to distribute the flavors evenly.

Slowly pour in some chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly. The combination of liquids will help create a luscious sauce that coats every strand of pasta. Once the sauce is bubbling and thickened, mix in the cooked penne and half of the shredded cheddar cheese.

Finally, sprinkle the crispy bacon and remaining cheese over the top. Let the cheese melt into the pasta, then give everything a good stir. Serve hot and watch as everyone digs in for seconds.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house), Crack Chicken Penne stores well for easy meals later. Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen up the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through, and it’ll taste just as good as the first time.

Variations and Substitutions

Crack Chicken Penne is endlessly adaptable, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand.

For a low-carb version, swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. The creamy sauce pairs perfectly with these lighter alternatives while still delivering all the flavor.

Switch up the protein by using shredded turkey, diced ham, or even cooked ground beef. Each variation brings a different twist to the dish while keeping it just as satisfying.

Want to sneak in some extra veggies? Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted bell peppers for added color and nutrition. These additions blend beautifully with the rich, cheesy sauce.

If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. The spice cuts through the creaminess and gives the dish an extra kick.

With so many ways to make it your own, Crack Chicken Penne is sure to be a staple in your meal rotation. Give it a try and see why it's earned its addictive reputation!

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