Go Back
–+ servings
Merry

Creamy Crack Chicken Penne – A Family Favorite Recipe!

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Crack Chicken Penne! Creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors, this dish features tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch-seasoned cheese sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. Whether you're making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 -6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

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
  • 8 oz 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

Method
 

Cook the Pasta:
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and set aside.
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.
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.
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.
  4. Serve and Enjoy!
  5. Garnish with chopped green onions and extra bacon bits.
  6. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
  • Use fresh shredded cheese for better melting and a creamier sauce.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to maintain creaminess.
  • Make it low-carb by swapping the pasta for cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!