If you’ve been on the hunt for a crowd-pleasing, cozy, and utterly addictive pasta dish, look no further than this Crack Chicken Penne Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors all simmered into tender penne pasta, making it impossible not to come back for seconds. The combination of ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and shredded chicken creates a dish that feels indulgent yet comforting—the kind of meal that hits the spot any day of the week and quickly becomes a fast favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple but impactful is the name of the game here. Each ingredient plays a vital role, whether it’s the creamy base, the sharp cheese, or that smoky bacon bite, bringing balance and flavor depth to this recipe.
- 12 oz penne pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto the rich, cheesy sauce in every bite.
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken: Adds hearty protein and soaks up all the delicious flavors.
- 6 oz cream cheese: Creates a luscious and velvety sauce base.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping): Delivers that classic cheesy punch and melts beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix: Brings that unique tangy and herbaceous zip that defines this dish.
- 1/2 cup bacon crumbles: Adds irresistible smokiness and crunchy texture.
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream: Makes the sauce silky and smooth while keeping it rich.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For richness and helping the sauce come together seamlessly.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Make Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by boiling the penne in salted water until just al dente—it should have a bit of bite to it, as it will cook more in the oven later. Once done, drain it well and set it aside. This step sets the foundation for your delicious pasta bake.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the cream cheese and stir steadily until it melts completely and forms a smooth base. Gradually pour in the milk or heavy cream, whisking continuously to avoid lumps and to create a silky sauce.
Step 3: Add Flavor with Cheese and Ranch
Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese melts fully and combines with the sauce. This mixture is where the flavors really come alive, bringing a comforting and tangy richness.
Step 4: Incorporate Chicken and Bacon
Stir in the shredded chicken and bacon crumbles so they are evenly coated with your luscious sauce. These ingredients contribute protein and texture, making the dish satisfyingly hearty and flavorful.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Gently fold the cooked pasta into the sauce until every piece is completely enveloped in that creamy goodness. This ensures each forkful bursts with flavor and richness.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the full mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top for an irresistible golden crust. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes until bubbly and beautifully browned on top.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a lively pop of green and gentle herbaceous notes. Serve immediately to enjoy the full comforting flavors and creamy texture.
How to Serve Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice to brighten up this rich dish, but for a little extra fun, try topping with crispy fried onions or chopped green onions. A light drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika can also elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or steamed veggies, balancing out the richness. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is always a crowd-pleaser to mop up any leftover sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve the Crack Chicken Penne Recipe in individual ramekins topped with fresh herbs and extra cheese. Another fun idea is to use colorful pasta shapes or add roasted cherry tomatoes for pops of color.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Crack Chicken Penne Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it ideal for quick lunches or dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes well! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions, stirring halfway to ensure even heating. Add a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much during storage.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast for this recipe?
Absolutely! Cooked, shredded chicken thighs will add a bit more juiciness and flavor, making the Crack Chicken Penne Recipe even tastier and more succulent.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese if I want a lighter version?
You can try using Greek yogurt or a lighter cream cheese alternative, but keep in mind that the sauce might be less rich and creamy. Adjust seasoning accordingly to retain flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the penne pasta for a gluten-free pasta variety. Just watch the cooking time as gluten-free pasta can vary in texture and cooking requirements.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning mix on hand?
You can make your own blend with dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper to mimic ranch seasoning. This keeps the flavor profile authentic.
Is it possible to prepare this recipe in advance and bake later?
Definitely. You can assemble everything up to the baking step and keep it covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilling beforehand.
Final Thoughts
If you love a hearty, comforting, and insanely delicious pasta bake, the Crack Chicken Penne Recipe is absolutely worth making at home. It’s a dish that delights every palate, blends well-loved flavors effortlessly, and will no doubt become a go-to for both weeknight dinners and entertaining friends. Go on, treat yourself and see why so many have fallen in love with this creamy, cheesy masterpiece!
Print
Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy pasta bake combining tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a flavorful ranch-infused cheese sauce. Perfect for a comforting family meal, this dish features penne pasta coated in a rich cream cheese and cheddar sauce, baked until bubbly and golden.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
Chicken and Bacon
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1/2 cup bacon crumbles
Cheese Sauce
- 6 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus more for topping)
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain well and set aside to use later.
- Make Cheese Base: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the cream cheese and stir continuously until it melts completely and becomes smooth.
- Create Sauce: Slowly whisk in the milk or heavy cream, maintaining constant stirring until a creamy and smooth sauce forms without lumps.
- Add Seasoning and Cheese: Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and the shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the mixture is well combined.
- Combine Chicken and Bacon: Add the cooked shredded chicken and bacon crumbles to the cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly so the meat is evenly distributed.
- Mix in Pasta: Fold the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, stirring gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce and ingredients.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in a preheated oven set to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- For a richer sauce, use heavy cream instead of milk.
- To save time, use rotisserie chicken as a convenient cooked chicken option.
- Feel free to add vegetables such as peas or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking, just add a few extra minutes to the bake time if chilled.
- Ensure the penne is drained thoroughly to avoid the sauce becoming too watery.
