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

Scale

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