Have you ever had a dish so addictive that you just couldn’t stop eating it? That’s exactly what Crack Chicken Penne is all about! This creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed pasta is the perfect comfort food. It combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, and rich ranch seasoning in a luscious cheese sauce, all tossed with penne pasta. Whether you’re making a quick family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or cooking for a potluck, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. One bite, and you’ll understand why it’s called “crack” chicken—because it’s just that good!

Why You’ll Love Crack Chicken Penne

• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation make this a go-to recipe.
• Rich and creamy texture – A cheesy, velvety sauce coats every bite.
• Packed with flavor – The combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch is irresistible.
• Perfect for leftovers – It tastes even better the next day!
• Kid-friendly and family-approved – Everyone at the table will love it.

Ingredients for Crack Chicken Penne

For the Chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon salt (for boiling water)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese (softened)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

For Garnish:

• ¼ cup chopped green onions
• Extra crispy bacon bits (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and add the cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
3. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking to combine.
4. Stir in ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
2. Add the drained penne pasta and mix well.
3. Sprinkle crumbled bacon over the top and stir gently.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Garnish with chopped green onions and extra bacon bits.
2. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount (Per Serving)
Calories	650 kcal
Carbohydrates	55g
Protein	40g
Fat	35g
Saturated Fat	15g
Sodium	900mg

Tips for the Best Crack Chicken Penne

1. Use fresh bacon – It adds a smoky, crispy texture that makes this dish even better.
2. Shred your own cheese – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly.
3. Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente so it holds up well in the sauce.
4. Make it spicier – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
5. Let it rest before serving – This helps the sauce thicken and coat the pasta better.

Crack Chicken Penne Variations

1. Low-Carb Version

• Replace the penne with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.

2. Buffalo Crack Chicken Penne

• Add ¼ cup of buffalo sauce to the cream sauce for a spicy twist.

3. Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Penne

• Cook chicken, bacon, ranch seasoning, and cream cheese in a slow cooker on LOW for 4 hours.
• Stir in cooked pasta and shredded cheese before serving.

4. Veggie-Packed Version

• Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?

Yes! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.

2. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, but cream-based sauces can change texture when frozen. If freezing, store in an airtight container and reheat on the stove with a bit of extra cream.

3. What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?

You can make a homemade version with a mix of dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, and salt.

4. Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and works great in this dish.

5. What’s the best pasta to use?

Penne holds up well to the thick sauce, but you can also use rigatoni, fusilli, or bowtie pasta.

6. How do I make this dish lighter?

Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

Now that you have everything you need to make Crack Chicken Penne, it’s time to get cooking! This dish is creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors that will satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Try it today and let us know how it turned out!

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