Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

If there’s one dish that defines comfort food, it’s Crack Chicken Penne. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this pasta is the kind of meal that makes you forget about everything else going on. It’s got everything—juicy chicken, crispy bacon, rich ranch seasoning, and perfectly cooked penne, all coated in a luscious, cheesy sauce. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast, so don’t expect leftovers.

This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty but don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a one-pot wonder that brings together simple ingredients in the best way possible. Plus, it’s easy to customize—whether you want to spice it up, make it a little lighter, or even turn it into a meal-prep favorite.

If you love bold flavors and satisfying meals, you might also want to try these Spicy Noodle Spring Rolls for a crunchy, zesty contrast or go for a quick and easy 15-Minute Lo Mein when you need a fast, flavorful dinner. But first, let’s get into this Crack Chicken Penne recipe—you’re going to love it.

What Is Crack Chicken Penne?

The name “crack chicken” might sound a little intense, but if you’ve ever tried it, you know why people call it that. It’s that irresistible combination of ranch seasoning, bacon, cream cheese, and shredded cheese that just works. Originally, crack chicken was a creamy, slow-cooked shredded chicken dish, but turning it into a pasta meal makes it even better.

By combining the creamy crack chicken base with penne pasta, you get a one-pot meal that’s rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and is great for both weeknight dinners and meal prep. Think of it as a grown-up version of mac and cheese, but with way more flavor and texture.

While this dish is rich and indulgent, there are plenty of ways to switch it up. You can make it spicier, lighten it up with a few ingredient swaps, or even turn it into a baked pasta dish with a crispy topping. If you’re into hearty, flavor-packed meals, you might also want to check out this Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes recipe—it’s another easy dinner that delivers big on taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is that it uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that come together in the best way possible. Here’s what you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, but you can use thighs for extra juiciness.
• Penne Pasta – Holds up well to the creamy sauce, but rotini or rigatoni work too.
• Turkey Bacon – Crispy, crumbled turkey bacon adds smoky flavor and crunch.
• Ranch Seasoning – The star of the show! A packet of ranch seasoning mix gives that signature tangy, herby taste.
• Cream Cheese – Makes the sauce rich and creamy. Full-fat works best, but you can use reduced-fat if you prefer.
• Shredded Cheese – Cheddar, Colby Jack, or a blend—anything melty and delicious.
• Heavy Cream or Milk – Helps create that ultra-smooth, velvety sauce.

Optional Add-Ins and Swaps:

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
• Go Low-Carb: Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Make It Lighter: Use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese, or swap heavy cream for half-and-half.
• Extra Flavor Boost: Stir in a little Ritz Cracker Chicken topping for a crunchy finish.

Now that we’ve got everything, let’s start cooking.

Step-by-Step Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

Start by cooking your chicken. You can either dice it into bite-sized pieces before cooking or cook whole breasts and shred them later.

• Stovetop: Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a little ranch seasoning, then cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
• Shortcut Option: Use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce

In the same pan, cook the chopped turkey bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving about a tablespoon of the grease in the pan for extra flavor.

• Add the cream cheese, heavy cream (or milk), and ranch seasoning to the pan. Stir until smooth.
• Toss in the shredded cheese and stir until it melts into a thick, creamy sauce.

Pro tip: If you love bold flavors, you might also enjoy these Teriyaki Pineapple Burgers for another rich, savory meal idea.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta and Combine Everything

While the sauce is coming together, cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and add it straight into the sauce. Stir well to coat every piece of pasta.

• Tip: Save about ½ cup of pasta water. If the sauce gets too thick, add a little bit at a time to loosen it up.

Step 4: Add the Turkey Bacon and Cheese Magic

Now, bring it all together:

• Slice or shred the cooked chicken and stir it into the pasta.
• Add the crispy turkey bacon and mix well.
• If you want extra cheese (who doesn’t?), sprinkle some on top and let it melt before serving.

This is the moment when your kitchen smells absolutely amazing, and you know dinner is about to be next-level good.

If you’re a fan of rich, comforting meals like this, you might also love these Cowboy Cookie Crumbl for dessert—a sweet, chewy treat to balance out the savory goodness of this pasta.

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Crack Chicken Penne is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, so pairing it with the right sides can make it an even better meal. Here are some great options:

• Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery slice of Garlic Butter Steak Bites and Potatoes would be a great side if you’re looking for another savory dish.
• Simple Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a lemon vinaigrette helps balance out the creamy pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for some extra greens.
• Crunchy Side: If you love texture contrast, serve with Spicy Noodle Spring Rolls for a crispy, zesty bite.

For drinks, a cold glass of iced tea, lemonade, or even a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with this dish.

Easy Customizations & Variations

One of the best things about Crack Chicken Penne is how flexible it is. Here are some easy ways to switch things up:

Make It Spicy

• Add buffalo sauce or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Stir in some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.

Go Low-Carb

• Swap the pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
• Use cauliflower rice instead of penne.

Baked Crack Chicken Penne

• Transfer everything to a baking dish, sprinkle extra cheese on top, and bake at 375°F until bubbly and golden.
• For extra crunch, top with Ritz Cracker Chicken crumbs.

Dairy-Free Option

• Use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese alternatives.
• Swap heavy cream for coconut milk or almond milk.

If you love customizable meals, check out Bagel vs. Sourdough to see which bread makes the best sandwich base for your next meal.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Got leftovers? Here’s how to keep your Crack Chicken Penne fresh and just as delicious the next day.

How to Store:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: This pasta freezes well! Place it in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat:

• Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or broth and warm over medium-low heat, stirring frequently.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
• Oven: Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes.

If you’re a fan of meal prep, check out this Easy 15-Minute Lo Mein Recipe for another quick and satisfying dish to add to your weekly lineup.

Final Thoughts

Crack Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and packed with bold flavors. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it to guests, this dish never disappoints. The combination of juicy chicken, smoky bacon, and creamy ranch-infused sauce makes every bite insanely delicious.

What’s even better? You can tweak this recipe to match your taste—spice it up, make it low-carb, or even turn it into a baked pasta dish. If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out other comfort-food favorites like Ritz Cracker Chicken or the crispy, flavor-packed Teriyaki Pineapple Burgers for more mealtime inspiration.

Now, let’s wrap things up with some image descriptions, SEO details, and final touches to help this recipe stand out!