Try this creamy, cheesy crack chicken penne—easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner the whole family will love!
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Crack Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Crack chicken penne is the kind of dish you turn to when you need something hearty, soul-satisfying, and downright comforting. It’s packed with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta, all wrapped in a creamy, cheesy ranch-flavored sauce that hits every comfort food craving you didn’t know you had.
This recipe is born from simple ingredients coming together in the most flavorful way. It’s what I make when I want something that tastes like it took hours, but actually comes together in less than one. If you’ve had a long day or just want a meal that brings smiles all around the table, this is your go-to. The balance of creaminess, saltiness from the bacon, and the herby kick of ranch makes every bite totally irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta – Holds sauce beautifully and stays firm after cooking.
- 2 cups cooked chicken – Shredded or chopped. Rotisserie works great if you’re short on time.
- 6 slices bacon – Cooked until crispy, then crumbled. Adds smokiness and crunch.
- 8 oz cream cheese – Softened. This is your creamy base, so make sure it melts smoothly.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For richness and that classic cheesy pull.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning – Adds flavor depth with herbs, garlic, and onion.
- 2 cups chicken broth – Helps create the sauce and keeps it from getting too thick.
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream – Depending on how indulgent you want to go.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – Used to sauté and add silkiness to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Season it to your liking.
- Fresh parsley or green onions (optional) – For a fresh pop of color and a little extra flavor.
Instructions
1. Boil the Pasta
- Cook the penne in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Fry the Bacon
- In a large pan or Dutch oven, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate.
3. Make the Sauce
- In the same pan, add olive oil and lower the heat. Stir in the cream cheese, broth, milk, ranch seasoning, and cheddar cheese. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
4. Add Chicken and Bacon
- Mix in the cooked chicken and most of the bacon (save some for topping). Simmer gently for about 5 minutes to thicken.
5. Combine with Pasta
- Add the cooked penne and toss to coat well. Garnish with leftover bacon and herbs. Serve hot and enjoy.
Tip: Let the cream cheese sit at room temperature before cooking. It melts more easily and blends into the sauce smoothly.
Notes
- Use freshly grated cheese—it melts better and tastes richer.
- Want some heat? Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
- Make it lighter: use light cream cheese and turkey bacon.
- Turn it into a crockpot crack chicken penne recipe: Cook chicken, cream cheese, broth, and ranch in the slow cooker for 4–6 hours. Stir in cooked pasta and cheese before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Dinner, Main Course, One-Pot Meals
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food, Southern
How I Discovered the Best Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
A few winters ago, I was staring into my half-empty fridge, debating whether cereal could pass for dinner. All I had was leftover chicken, half a block of cream cheese, some bacon, and a box of penne. I threw them together out of desperation—and wow. It wasn’t just edible, it was fantastic.
Since then, I’ve refined the recipe dozens of times, experimenting with different cheeses, seasonings, and textures. It’s now my go-to for weeknights, potlucks, and even casual dinner parties. The feedback? Always the same: “This is addictive!”
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 38g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 910mg
How Long to Cook Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
- Stovetop: About 25 minutes after prep
- Crockpot: 4–6 hours on low, 2–3 on high (add pasta later)
- Baked: Assemble in a baking dish, top with cheese, bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes
What to Serve with Crack Chicken Penne
- This dish pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh Caesar salad or spinach salad
- Steamed broccoli or asparagus
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- Sparkling lemonade or a crisp glass of white wine
How to Freeze Crack Chicken Penne
- Let it cool completely first.
- Portion into freezer-safe containers.
- Label and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Frozen Crack Chicken Penne
- Defrost overnight in the fridge.
- Reheat in a covered dish at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
- Add a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Why It’s So Addictive
This dish checks all the boxes: creamy, salty, cheesy, and savory. According to food scientists, dishes high in umami (like this one) naturally trigger the brain’s reward system, making us crave more.
It’s no surprise that ranch seasoning, cheddar, and bacon create such an addictive combination—they’re full of flavor and texture.
What’s your crack chicken twist?
- Add hot sauce
- Extra garlic
- Throw in broccoli
- Mix in mushrooms
- Double the cheese
Drop your favorite version in the comments! You might inspire someone else’s dinner.