How to Make Crack Chicken Penne: 7 Easy Steps to Creamy Perfection

Name: How to Make Crack Chicken Penne: 7 Easy Steps to Creamy Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (Cut into bite-sized pieces); 1 pound Penne pasta; 8 ounces Cream cheese (Softened); 1 cup Ranch dressing; 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese; 6 slices Cooked bacon (Crumbled); 0.25 cup Green onions (Chopped)

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By: Bennett Claire
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Posted: 07/14/2025

What is that one dish that has completely transformed my weeknight dinner?Crack Chicken Penne. What are yourI know the name might sound a little intense, but trust me on this one – it’s completely utterly insane. How do I become addicted to drugs? Think creamy, cheesy, bacony goodness all wrapped up in perfectly cooked penne pasta. Is it like a loaded baked potato met chicken alfredo and they decided to have penne pasta baby? Is a whole baked potato better than mashed potatoes? Get ready for smiles all around!

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What is crack chicken penne?

Crack Chicken Penne. What are someWhat is the ultimate comfort food mashup? It’s a creamy pasta dish featuring shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese. What is the flavor profile of dressing? What’s the difference between a Chicken Bacon Ranch sandwich and an onion bread sandwich? What are some of the best pantry staples to make this dish? What is a meal that everyone in the family will devour? Why is eating so addictive? What is that perfect mix of savory, creamy, and cheesy that keeps you coming back for more?

Why you’ll love this recipe?

Why is there so many reasons for this?Crack Chicken Penne is a crackHas become a staple in my kitchen, but let me break it down for you. What I love most about this is how easy it is to throw together on a busy weeknight. It takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, which is a lifesaver when you’re juggling work, school and life. What does life throw at you? What are some of the best flavors to try: the creamy ranch sauce, the salty bacon, and the crispy bacon. How does the sharp cheddar cheese work together with the tender chicken?
I love this recipe because it’s so versatile. Can you customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or spices? Is it a healthy meal? Plus, leftovers (if there are any)! What is the secret to a good meal the next day? My kids ask for this meal constantly – and that’s a huge win in my book. What is your New Favorite Comfort Food? What’s not to love?

How do I make crack chicken penne?

Quick Overview

Making this Crack Chicken Penne?How do you cook pasta and bacon? While the pasta cooks, you’ll Whip Up the creamy, cheesy sauce using cream cheese, ranch dressing, and a few other ingredients. How do you serve cooked chicken with cheddar cheese? Once the pasta is cooked and drained, simply combine it with the sauce and bacon, stir it all. Together, and serve. Is this a one pot wonder? How many hours in the kitchen do you spend in

Ingredients

For the Main Dish:
* 1 pound penne pasta: I usually use regular crinkle pasta, but gluten-free works great too. * 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded: Rotisserie chicken is a HUGE time saver here. * 8 ounces Cream Cheese, softened: This is key for that creamy texture. What is your favorite ranch dressing brand? What’s the best way to make a sauce? Sharp cheddar gives the best flavor, in my opinion. * 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled: Don’t skimp on the bacon! It adds so much flavor. * 1/4 cup chopped green onions: 14 cup. Salt and pepper to taste: Always season to your liking!
Optional Add-in
* 1/2 cup frozen peas: Adds a touch of sweetness and extra veggies. For a burst of juicy flavor. * 1/4 cup hot sauce: If you like some kick!

What are the Steps to

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside. I always cook pasta a minute or two shy of the package directions. Is it safe to mix it with sauce?

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

While pasta is cooking, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces. Don’t throw away that bacon grease! What is the best way to add flavor to a dish?

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the Cream Cheese and ranch dressing. Mix well. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is thick. What is the best way to do this? I always whisk the cream cheese and ranch together before heating it, to help prevent lumps.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Chicken

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked chicken. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the chicken is heated through. What is the best way to do this in a few minutes? If you overcook a chicken, make sure not to burn it.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. How do you stir together the pasta and sauce? What are some optional ingredients you can add to a recipe? If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or pasta water to thin it out.

Step 6: Add the Bacon and Green Onions

Stir in the crumbled bacon and green onions, reserving a little for garnish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. I always taste the sauce before adding salt, as the bacon and ranch dressing can be quite salty.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the Crack Chicken Penne.What are some great side dishes to serve with bacon and green onions? Is it good to serve hot or cold? If you’re feeling fancy, you can sprinkle a little extra cheddar cheese on top before serving.

What should I serve it with?

This Crack Chicken Penne. What are someWhat are some of the best side dishes to serve with your meal?

What is a quick and easy weeknight dinner?Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables. What is the best bagged salad mix for dressing?

For a More Elaborate Meal:Pair with garlic bread or breadsticks and a roasted vegetable like broccoli or asparagus. I like to throw Garlic Butter on bread and pop it in the oven. Sometimes I’ll throw a few tablespoons of it on top of some crusty bread.

For a potluck or party: This Crack Chicken Penne.What are the best potluck ideas? Serve it with a variety of sides like coleslaw, potato salad, or corn on the cob.

My family loves this with homemade cornbread on the side. It’s a classic.

How do I make crack chicken penne?

What are some of the best tips and tricks I’ve learned over the years to make my life easier?Crack Chicken Penne. What are some even better:

Chicken Choices: WhatRotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience, but you can also use leftover grilled chicken, baked or fried. Chicken, or even canned chicken. Just make sure it’s cooked and shredded.

Cream Cheese: Make sure your cream cheese is fully softened before adding it to the skillet. This will help prevent lumps and ensure a smooth, creamy sauce. I usually take it out of the fridge about an hour before I start cooking.

Ranch Dressing: Use your favorite brand of ranch dressing! I’ve found that the thicker the dressing, the better the sauce. You can also experiment with different flavors of ranch dressing, like spicy ranch or jalapeno ranch.

Cheese Variations: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack would all be delicious in this dish.

Bacon Tips: For extra crispy bacon, try baking it in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes. It comes out perfectly crispy every time! I’ve even used turkey bacon and it was still yummy!

Vegetable Additions: Don’t be afraid to add some vegetables to this dish! Frozen peas, chopped tomatoes, or even sauteed mushrooms would all be great additions. I’ve snuck in finely chopped spinach before and my kids didn’t even notice!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Here’s How to properly store and reheat your Crack Chicken Penne:

Refrigerating: Store leftover Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before storing.

Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze Crack Chicken Penne. Divide the pasta into individual portions and wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating: To reheat refrigerated Crack Chicken Penne, simply microwave it for a few minutes until heated through. You can also reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of milk or water to rehydrate it.

Thawing: To thaw frozen Crack Chicken Penne, place it in the refrigerator overnight. Once thawed, reheat as directed above. I don’t recommend thawing it at room temperature, as this can increase the risk of bacterial growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use your favorite gluten-free penne pasta. I’ve used several different brands and they all work great. Just be sure to cook the pasta according to the package directions, as gluten-free pasta can sometimes be a bit more delicate.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can use any cheese that melts well. Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even pepper jack would all be delicious in this dish.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Of course! Frozen peas, chopped tomatoes, or even sauteed mushrooms would all be great additions. Just add them to the skillet along with the chicken and cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Prepare the dish as directed, but don’t add the bacon and green onions until just before serving. Store the pasta in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, reheat as directed above and then add the bacon and green onions.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Cooked and shredded turkey or ham would also be delicious in this dish. You could even use ground beef or sausage, if you prefer.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – my go-to Crack Chicken Penne recipe! It’s a simple, delicious, and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you’re craving comfort food. I truly believe this is a must-try recipe for anyone who loves pasta, chicken, bacon, and cheese. The creamy sauce, the flavorful chicken, and the crispy bacon all come together to create a dish that’s simply irresistible. If you loved this recipe, be sure to check out my other pasta dishes for more inspiration! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Leave a comment below and let me know what you think. Happy cooking!

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