Dive into the irresistible world of Creamy Crack Chicken Penne, where tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta come together in a rich, cheesy sauce that’s bursting with flavor. This comforting dish has quickly become a family favorite for good reason — it’s easy to make, deeply satisfying, and full of creamy goodness that keeps everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to bring smiles and satisfy appetites at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crack Chicken Penne
This Creamy Crack Chicken Penne is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just 30 minutes from start to finish. The creamy sauce, combined with the savory chicken and crispy bacon, creates a flavor explosion that your family will adore. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup for you. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a staple in your home!
Ingredients for Creamy Crack Chicken Penne
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Creamy Crack Chicken Penne a hit at your dinner table. Here’s what you’ll need:
Penne Pasta: This pasta shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite delightful.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Diced chicken is the star of the dish, providing protein and heartiness.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps to sauté the chicken, adding a touch of flavor.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is where the magic happens! It infuses the dish with a zesty, savory kick.
Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese creates that luscious, creamy texture we all crave.
Chicken Broth: Adding broth enhances the flavor and helps achieve the perfect creamy consistency.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This cheese melts beautifully, adding richness and a cheesy goodness.
Cooked Bacon: Crumbled bacon brings a crispy, smoky element that elevates the dish.
Green Onions: Sliced green onions add a fresh crunch and a pop of color for garnish.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these staples enhance all the flavors in the dish.
For those looking to mix things up, consider these optional ingredients:
Greek Yogurt: Swap half of the cream cheese for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
Vegetables: Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
Spicy Additions: If you like a kick, diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can spice things up!
Exact measurements for each ingredient can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print and take to the kitchen!
How to Make Creamy Crack Chicken Penne
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this Creamy Crack Chicken Penne. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Remember, you want it firm enough to hold up in the creamy sauce!
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced chicken. Season it with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. The aroma will be irresistible!
Step 3: Mix in Ranch and Cream Cheese
Next, stir in the ranch seasoning mix and softened cream cheese. Mix everything together until the cream cheese melts and combines with the chicken. This is where the magic begins! The ranch flavor will start to envelop the chicken, creating a creamy base.
Step 4: Add Chicken Broth
Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously. This will help achieve that luscious, creamy consistency we all love. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined. If it seems too thick, feel free to add a bit more broth!
Step 5: Combine with Penne
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Gently mix everything until the pasta is well coated with the creamy chicken mixture. This is where the dish starts to look like a comforting bowl of goodness!
Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Bacon
To elevate the flavors, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring until the cheese melts and everything is heated through. The combination of cheese and bacon will make your taste buds dance!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the skillet from heat and garnish your Creamy Crack Chicken Penne with sliced green onions. This adds a fresh crunch and a pop of color. Serve it warm, and watch your family dig in with smiles on their faces!
Tips for Success
Always taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to your family’s preference.
Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
For a creamier sauce, add a splash more chicken broth if needed.
Prep ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or spices!
Equipment Needed
Large Pot: For boiling the penne pasta. A Dutch oven works well too!
Skillet: A large skillet is essential for sautéing the chicken and mixing everything together.
Measuring Cups: Handy for measuring ingredients accurately.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and combining the creamy sauce.
Colander: To drain the pasta once it’s cooked.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a hearty, meatless meal.
Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat penne for a healthier twist that adds fiber to your dish.
Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a fiery kick that spice lovers will enjoy.
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.
Low-Carb Alternative: Swap the penne for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, low-carb meal.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread for a comforting side.
Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Wine Pairing: A chilled white wine, like Chardonnay, complements the creamy flavors beautifully.
Presentation: Serve in colorful bowls and sprinkle extra green onions on top for a pop of color.
FAQs about Creamy Crack Chicken Penne
As you embark on your culinary adventure with Creamy Crack Chicken Penne, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers to guide you:
Can I make Creamy Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if it thickens up.
What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can create a similar flavor by mixing dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious!
Can I freeze Creamy Crack Chicken Penne?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce while cooking. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra kick!
What sides pair well with Creamy Crack Chicken Penne?
For a balanced meal, serve it with a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables. Garlic bread is also a fantastic side that complements the creamy pasta beautifully!
Final Thoughts
Cooking is more than just preparing food; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with loved ones. My Creamy Crack Chicken Penne has become a cherished recipe in our home, bringing smiles and satisfied bellies to the dinner table. The creamy texture, combined with the savory flavors, makes it a dish everyone looks forward to. Plus, it’s quick enough to fit into our busy lives. I hope this recipe brings as much happiness to your family as it has to mine. So grab your ingredients and let the cooking adventure begin!
Creamy Crack Chicken Penne is a delicious and creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken, ranch seasoning, and cheese for a family favorite meal.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups penne pasta
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 ounce)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1/2 cup green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and cream cheese, mixing until the cream cheese is melted and well combined with the chicken.
Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and mix well to combine.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
