Addictive Crack Chicken Penne Recipe for Pasta Lovers

Weeknight dinners demand simple yet satisfying solutions, and this creamy crack chicken penne recipe delivers exactly what busy home cooks need.

Tender pasta swirled with succulent chicken creates a comforting meal that feels like a warm embrace.

Packed with rich, bold flavors, this dish combines classic ingredients in an unexpected way.

Cream cheese melts into a velvety sauce that clings to each pasta ridge, ensuring maximum deliciousness in every bite.

The recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for hectic evenings when you want something hearty and delectable.

Sprinkle some fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and extra freshness that elevates this already irresistible meal.

You’ll find yourself returning to this recipe again and again, knowing it will never disappoint hungry diners.

Crack Chicken Penne Favorite Features

• Whip Up Comfort Food: Indulge in a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that hugs your taste buds with rich flavors and satisfying textures.
• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or add extra toppings to match your family's preferences, making this recipe super adaptable for picky eaters.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimize kitchen cleanup by preparing everything in a single pot, saving time and reducing dishwashing hassle.
• Family Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with protein from chicken and bacon, plus cheesy goodness that kids and adults will absolutely love, this recipe guarantees clean plates and happy smiles.

Ingredients for Cheesy Chicken Penne

• Penne Pasta: A tube-shaped pasta that holds sauce well and provides a hearty base for the dish.
• Chicken: Shredded protein that adds substance and flavor to the creamy pasta.
• Chicken Broth: Creates a rich liquid base for the sauce and enhances overall flavor.

• Heavy Cream, Cream Cheese: Provide a luxurious, smooth, and creamy texture to the sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese, Mozzarella Cheese: Melt into the sauce, adding richness and a classic cheesy flavor.

• Ranch Seasoning, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Black Pepper, Salt: Blend together to create a well-balanced and savory flavor profile.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat and spicy kick to the dish.
• Bacon: Introduces a smoky and crispy element that complements the creamy sauce.
• Green Onions: Provides a fresh, mild onion flavor and adds a pop of color as a garnish.

Making Crack Chicken Penne Step by Step

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the penne pasta exactly as the package directs.

Once perfectly cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready for the next delicious step.

Step 2: Create the Creamy Base

Return to the same pot and pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and cream cheese.

Stir the ingredients continuously until they blend into a smooth, velvety sauce that promises pure comfort.

Step 3: Spice Up the Mixture

• Shredded chicken
• Ranch seasoning
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Red pepper flakes

Stir everything together, ensuring the seasonings coat every morsel of chicken and create a mouthwatering aroma.

Step 4: Melt the Cheesy Goodness

Toss in the cooked penne pasta, cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese.

Stir until the cheese melts completely, creating a luxuriously creamy texture that will make everyone’s mouth water.

Step 5: Add Crispy Bacon Finish

Gently fold in the crumbled bacon and let the entire mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to mingle and intensify.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, zesty finish.

Serve the crack chicken penne piping hot and watch it disappear from the plate in record time.

Pro Tips for Chicken Penne Dishes

• Stir pasta immediately after adding to boiling water and occasionally during cooking to avoid sticking together.
• Remove pot from heat when adding cheese to prevent scorching and ensure smooth, creamy texture.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on personal heat preference, starting with less and adding gradually.
• Use homemade chicken broth or low-sodium store-bought version for richer, more complex taste profile.
• Refrigerate assembled dish and reheat gently with splash of broth to maintain creamy consistency.

Fun Variations for Chicken Penne

• Spicy Jalapeño Chicken Penne: Replace red pepper flakes with diced fresh jalapeños for a fresh, zesty kick and added heat.
• Vegetarian Tofu Penne: Swap chicken with firm tofu cubes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Version: Substitute penne pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles, reducing carbohydrates and adding extra vegetables to the dish.
• Greek-Inspired Chicken Penne: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and oregano for a Mediterranean flavor profile.

Serving Up Crack Chicken Penne

• Pasta Party Platter: Serve this creamy dish with a colorful side salad to balance the rich flavors and add some fresh crunch.
• Bacon Lover's Dream: Sprinkle extra crispy bacon bits on top just before serving for an additional smoky and salty kick that elevates the entire meal.
• Green Freshness Boost: Scatter more chopped green onions or fresh chives over the penne to bring a bright, zesty note that cuts through the creamy texture.
• Bread Companion: Pair with warm garlic bread or toasted crusty rolls to soak up the delicious cheesy sauce and complete the comfort food experience.

Chicken Penne Storage Solutions

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover tightly to prevent moisture loss and maintain flavor.
• Place a single serving in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to restore creaminess, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warm.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a little chicken broth or cream to prevent sticking. Stir gently and consistently to restore the original creamy texture and prevent burning.
• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using microwave or stovetop methods.

FAQs

• Is this recipe spicy?

The ranch seasoning and red pepper flakes can add a mild kick, but you can adjust the heat by reducing or omitting the red pepper flakes for a milder version.

• Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne works great, you can substitute with other pasta shapes like rotini, shells, or bowtie pasta that hold sauce well.

• How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use low-fat cream cheese, reduced-fat cheeses, and lean chicken breast. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli to increase nutritional value.

• Do I need to cook the chicken beforehand?

Yes, use pre-cooked, shredded chicken from a rotisserie chicken, leftover grilled chicken, or cook and shred chicken breasts before adding to the recipe.

Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

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4.8 from 39 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy, cheesy crack chicken penne delivers comfort on a plate, blending savory chicken, bacon, and ranch flavors into one irresistible pasta dish. Home cooks will find this simple yet indulgent recipe perfect for weeknight dinners that satisfy serious cravings.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

Cheese and Dairy Ingredients:

• 1 (8 ounces) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream

Pasta and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
• 1 (1 ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook penne pasta in a large pot according to package directions until al dente, then drain and reserve.
2. Return the pot to the stove and combine chicken broth, heavy cream, and cream cheese, whisking until the mixture becomes silky and uniform.
3. Introduce shredded chicken and dry seasonings, including ranch mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes, stirring thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
4. Incorporate cooked penne into the creamy sauce, then fold in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, continuing to stir until cheese melts completely and creates a luscious coating.
5. Sprinkle crumbled bacon throughout the pasta, allowing the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors and ensure everything is heated through.
6. Transfer to serving dishes, garnish with freshly chopped green onions, and serve immediately while piping hot for maximum flavor and texture enjoyment.

Notes

• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and prevent an overly salty dish.
• Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version that’s still creamy and delicious.
• For a gluten-free option, replace regular penne with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa.
• Enhance protein content by adding extra shredded rotisserie chicken or using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a tangy twist.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 505 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Fat: 32 g
• Saturated Fat: 16 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 110 mg