What if I told you that the ultimate comfort food can come together in just one pot? Meet my Creamy Crack Chicken Penne with Bacon and Ranch, a dish that’s been a game-changer in my kitchen. This easy-to-prepare meal features tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a delectably creamy sauce that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters in your family. It’s not just a quick fix; it’s a flavor-packed wonder that keeps everyone asking for seconds. Plus, with gluten-free options available, there’s no reason to leave anyone out! Are you ready to explore a new family favorite that transforms weeknight dinners into a cozy gathering?

Why is Crack Chicken Penne a Must-Try?

Deliciously Simple: This recipe comes together effortlessly in one pot, saving you time on both preparation and cleanup.

Family-Friendly Flavor: With tender chicken and crispy bacon, it’s a crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages—a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.

Customizable Options: From using turkey bacon for a lighter touch to adding vibrant veggies like broccoli or spinach, feel free to make your dish truly your own!

Comfort in Every Bite: The creamy, cheesy sauce wraps around the pasta perfectly, offering a delightful texture that rivals your favorite macaroni and cheese.

Quick and Convenient: Ideal for busy weeknights, you can whip up this meal in no time, ensuring you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying with family.

For more delightful options, you might enjoy my Hawaiian Chicken Sheet for another easy one-pot meal, or try the wholesome Grilled Chicken Broccoli for a light, nutritious dinner!

Crack Chicken Penne Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken
• Penne Pasta – The base of this dish, providing a satisfying chewiness.
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – A lean protein that absorbs all the rich flavors.

For the Sauce
• Cream Cheese – Adds a delightful creaminess to the sauce; opt for Neufchâtel for a lighter option.
• Cream of Chicken Soup – Enriches the sauce with a savory base; feel free to use gluten-free varieties.
• Chicken Broth – Keeps the dish moist and enhances the flavor; substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix – Brings a tangy kick; homemade ranch seasoning can easily be swapped in.

For the Bacon and Aromatics
• Smoked Bacon – This key ingredient lends a smoky richness; use turkey bacon for a healthier alternative.
• Yellow Onion – Provides aromatic depth; shallots can work for a milder flavor if preferred.
• Salt – Essential for enhancing overall flavor; adjust according to the saltiness of your broth.
• Black Pepper – Adds warmth; white pepper can be used for a subtler spice.

For the Finishing Touches
• Shredded Colby Jack Cheese – The melty topping that takes this dish over the top; cheddar or Monterey Jack can serve as replacements.
• Chopped Fresh Parsley – A garnish that adds a touch of color and freshness to your dish.

Don’t forget, the delightful Crack Chicken Penne is flexible, allowing for gluten-free pasta to cater to dietary restrictions!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crack Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Once cooked, drain the bacon on paper towels to remove excess grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the skillet to infuse flavor into your Crack Chicken Penne.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken and Onion
Season the cubed boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt and black pepper, then add them to the skillet along with the diced yellow onion. Sauté the mixture for about 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and the onion becomes translucent, creating a fragrant base for the dish.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Pour in the chicken broth and add the ranch seasoning mix along with the uncooked penne pasta. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the temperature to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for approximately 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup until well combined. This will create a luxuriously creamy sauce that envelops the pasta. Mix in half of the shredded Colby Jack cheese and the cooked bacon, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle the remaining Colby Jack cheese over the top of the pasta mixture, then cover the skillet again. Allow it to sit for just 3-5 minutes, letting the cheese melt beautifully into the dish. Once melted, it will add a deliciously gooey texture that perfectly complements the Crack Chicken Penne.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Crack Chicken Penne with the reserved crumbled bacon and chopped fresh parsley. Serve it hot, and enjoy this comforting, creamy one-pot meal with your family, celebrating the savory flavors and easy preparation that make it a weeknight favorite.

What to Serve with Crack Chicken Penne?

There’s nothing like a well-rounded meal that elevates your favorite creamy pasta dish into a delightful dining experience.

Garlic Breadsticks: Perfectly soft and buttery, these breadsticks are ideal for scooping up that creamy sauce and adding an irresistible garlic touch.
Mixed Vegetables: A medley of colorful vegetables, steamed or sautéed, brings freshness and a vibrant crunch that complements the rich textures of the penne.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a refreshing contrast to the heavy dish, brightening every bite.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges and nutty flavor of roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and a slight bitterness that balances the richness of the meal.
Sweet Corn: Sweet and buttery corn kernels make a delightful side, creating a harmonious touch of sweetness against the savory chicken and bacon.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: Light, refreshing drinks like lemonade or iced tea are perfect accompaniments, perfectly cutting through the creaminess of the pasta.
Chocolate Cake: To finish off your meal on a high note, serve a decadent slice of chocolate cake; the deep flavors are a sublime contrast to the creamy dish.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Crack Chicken Penne in advance makes mealtime a breeze for busy families! You can chop your onions, cook the bacon, and even season the chicken up to 24 hours ahead of time, storing them separately in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the penne pasta and toss it with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. When it’s time to enjoy, combine all the prepped ingredients in a skillet, add the chicken broth and ranch seasoning, and follow the original cooking steps. This ensures your Crack Chicken Penne remains just as delicious while saving you precious time on hectic weeknights!

Expert Tips for Crack Chicken Penne

Perfect Pasta: Ensure that the penne is al dente: Tasting during cooking is key; overcooked pasta can ruin the texture of your Crack Chicken Penne.

Moisture Matters: Add water if needed: If the dish appears dry, stir in 1/2 cup of water when cooking the pasta.

Storage Smart: Avoid freezing leftovers: Cream sauce may separate, so store in the fridge for up to 3 days instead for best results.

Reheat Right: Keep it creamy: When reheating, a splash of milk or broth helps maintain the delicious creaminess of your Crack Chicken Penne.

Customize Flavor: Experiment with cheeses: Different cheese varieties can elevate flavor; consider adding pepper jack for a spicy kick!

Crack Chicken Penne: Endless Variations Await

Feel free to experiment and make this delicious recipe your own with these fun twists and substitutions!

Gluten-Free Pasta: Use gluten-free penne to accommodate dietary restrictions and keep everyone satisfied.
Turkey Bacon: Swap the smoked bacon for turkey bacon for a lighter, healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Cheese Variety: Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick that enhances the creamy sauce beautifully.
Vegetable Boost: Add fresh spinach or broccoli during cooking to increase nutrition and color, turning this dish into a veggie delight!
Creamy Alternatives: Substitute cream cheese with Neufchâtel for a lower-fat version or use cashew cream for a dairy-free option.
Broth Alternatives: Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly dish that still packs in the flavor!
Different Seasonings: Use homemade ranch seasoning to customize the flavor profile to your taste, or experiment with taco seasoning for a fun variation.
One-Pot Cooking: For an effortless twist, try using a slow cooker to prepare this meal, ensuring it’s ready when you are!

With the versatility of Crack Chicken Penne, you can take your dinner to new heights. Pair it with some garlic breadsticks for a complete meal or enjoy alongside a light salad for extra crunch. The possibilities are endless, allowing everyone to indulge in this comforting delight!

How to Store and Freeze Crack Chicken Penne

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or milk for creamy consistency.

Freezer: Avoid freezing this dish as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing. If necessary, freeze without the sauce and add freshly made sauce when reheating.

Room Temperature: If serving at a gathering, keep out for no more than 2 hours to ensure food safety; refrigerate any leftovers promptly.

Reheating: For the best flavor and texture, reheat gently on low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking to the pan. Enjoy your Crack Chicken Penne hot!

Crack Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for my Crack Chicken Penne?
Absolutely! Opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts that are plump and firm with no signs of dark spots or unpleasant odors. Fresh chicken should be pink in color; if you’re pressed for time, pre-cooked chicken can be a great shortcut too, saving you valuable minutes during meal prep.

What is the best way to store leftovers?
For your leftover Crack Chicken Penne, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When reheating, don’t forget to sprinkle a bit of water or broth to maintain the creaminess of the sauce as it heats, ensuring every bite is just as delicious as the first!

Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne for later?
It’s best to avoid freezing Crack Chicken Penne because the cream sauce may separate when thawed. If you’d like to freeze it, I recommend preparing the dish without the creamy sauce. Freeze the chicken and pasta mixture, and then whip up a fresh creamy sauce when you’re ready to enjoy the dish again.

What if my dish turns out too dry?
Very! If you notice your Crack Chicken Penne is looking a bit dry while cooking, no need to worry. Simply add 1/2 cup of water to the skillet and stir it in while the pasta continues to cook. This will help create a lovely saucy consistency that perfectly clings to your pasta for that rich, creamy flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Of course! This dish can be modified to accommodate gluten-free diets by using gluten-free penne pasta. If anyone in your family has dairy allergies, you can substitute cream cheese and shredded cheese with dairy-free alternatives, ensuring everyone can indulge in this comforting meal. Always double-check labels for any hidden allergens!

Can I add vegetables to my Crack Chicken Penne?
The more the merrier! Feel free to incorporate your favorite veggies into the mix. Spinach, broccoli or even bell peppers are excellent additions that not only enhance the nutritional value but also add a vibrant pop of color and flavor to your dish. Just sauté them alongside the chicken and onion for a delightful twist!