The Ultimate Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

Looking for a mouth-watering meal that’s both indulgent and simple to prepare? This ultimate crack chicken penne recipe has you covered. Learn how to make a creamy, cheesy, and savory dish that’s guaranteed to be a hit with everyone at the dinner table.

Introduction

If you’re in the mood for a comforting dish that combines creamy sauce, savory chicken, and al dente pasta, then this crack chicken penne recipe is what you’re looking for. It’s a perfect blend of tender chicken, crispy bacon, ranch seasoning, and creamy cheese sauce mixed with penne pasta. This recipe has gained immense popularity for good reason—it’s easy, filling, and absolutely addictive.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, crack chicken penne never disappoints. We’ll go through all the steps to make this savory dish, providing tips to ensure your crack chicken penne is bursting with flavor. But first, let’s look at why this dish has become so beloved and addictive.

What Makes Crack Chicken Penne So Addictive?

The combination of flavors—salty, creamy, tangy, and savory—makes crack chicken penne a highly satisfying dish. The creamy sauce, made with cream cheese and ranch seasoning, melds with the juicy chicken and smoky bacon, creating a unique taste that people can’t get enough of. It’s no wonder why this dish has earned its “crack” title. The best part? It’s easy to prepare and uses ingredients you likely already have on hand, making it an ideal choice for dinner any night of the week.

Check out this comprehensive guide to ranch seasoning mixes to learn more about making your own blend at home.

If you want to know more about creamy pasta recipes, Food Network has a great collection you might want to check out here.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a list of everything you need to create your very own crack chicken penne:

1 pound penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
1 packet (1 ounce) of ranch seasoning mix
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Ingredient Tips

Penne Pasta: You can use any type of pasta you like, but penne works perfectly to absorb the creamy sauce.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: For a more personalized taste, consider making your own ranch seasoning mix. This way, you can adjust the flavor and control the ingredients, which is especially useful if you want to lower the sodium content.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your crack chicken penne at home:

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Set the chicken aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the cream cheese and chicken broth. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and combined with the broth to create a smooth sauce. Stir in the ranch seasoning mix.
Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Stir until everything is well coated with the sauce.
Add Bacon and Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it’s melted and combined. Add the crumbled bacon and continue to stir.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Success

Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken breasts give a better flavor and texture compared to frozen.
Adjust the Ranch Flavor: If you want a more intense ranch flavor, add an extra half packet of ranch seasoning.
Cheese Variety: You can use other types of cheese if you prefer. Sharp cheddar adds a nice tang, but Monterey Jack or Colby cheese also work well.

Why You Should Make Crack Chicken Penne Tonight

This crack chicken penne is more than just a typical pasta dish. The combination of flavors makes it irresistible, while the creamy sauce binds everything together beautifully. It’s also incredibly versatile—you can add vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers to increase its nutritional value, or you can swap out penne for another pasta shape depending on what you have available.

External Inspiration

Why Every Home Cook Should Learn to Make Chicken Pasta Dishes by Bon Appétit.

Nutritional Information

One serving of crack chicken penne provides:

Calories: Approximately 620 kcal
Protein: 28 grams
Fat: 34 grams
Carbohydrates: 48 grams
Fiber: 2 grams

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredient brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called crack chicken?

The term “crack chicken” refers to the incredibly addictive combination of flavors that this dish provides. The creamy, cheesy, and savory taste makes it difficult to resist, hence earning the nickname “crack.”

What is a good side for crack chicken?

Some great sides for crack chicken penne include:

Steamed Broccoli: The freshness of steamed broccoli complements the richness of the dish.
Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Green Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a great contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Does chicken go in pasta?

Absolutely! Chicken is a classic addition to pasta, providing both protein and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with creamy sauces, as in this crack chicken penne recipe.

How many calories are in chicken penne pasta?

The calorie count can vary depending on the ingredients used, but a typical serving of crack chicken penne contains approximately 620 kcal. Adjustments such as using low-fat cheese or less bacon can help reduce the calorie content.

Variations You Can Try

Add Vegetables: Consider adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers to add a pop of color and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy version.
Swap the Pasta: Try using whole-wheat penne or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative.

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving: This dish is best served hot, garnished with a bit of fresh parsley or chopped green onions.
Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen up the sauce.
Freezing: You can freeze crack chicken penne for up to 2 months. Make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Customize Your Crack Chicken Penne

One of the best things about crack chicken penne is how easily it can be customized to fit different preferences and dietary needs. Here are some great ways to personalize the dish:

Add Extra Protein

If you’re looking to increase the protein content, you can easily add other types of protein such as:

Shrimp: Add cooked shrimp for a delicious seafood twist.
Sausage: Sliced smoked sausage or Italian sausage can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
Turkey Bacon: If you want to cut back on fat, consider using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.

Make It Vegetarian

To make a vegetarian version of this dish, you can simply omit the chicken and bacon and replace them with plant-based alternatives. Some good options include:

Chickpeas: Chickpeas provide a good amount of protein and add a different texture.
Tofu: Firm tofu works well when marinated and then added to the dish.
Vegetarian Bacon: There are many vegetarian bacon substitutes available that can still give that smoky flavor.

Change Up the Sauce

If you’d like to experiment with the sauce, here are some ideas:

Alfredo Sauce: Replace the cream cheese with Alfredo sauce for a rich, decadent version.
Tomato Cream Sauce: Add some marinara sauce to the cream cheese mixture to create a tomato cream sauce.
Pesto: Stir in a few tablespoons of pesto for a fresh, herbaceous twist.

Gluten-Free Option

To make this dish gluten-free, simply swap out the regular penne pasta for a gluten-free variety. There are plenty of options available, from rice-based pasta to quinoa-based pasta, that work just as well in this recipe.

Perfect Pairings for Crack Chicken Penne

While crack chicken penne is certainly delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some pairings that work particularly well:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini tossed in garlic and Parmesan cheese are a perfect accompaniment to the creamy crack chicken penne. The roasted flavor and slight crunch provide a nice contrast to the soft pasta.

Caesar Salad

A classic Caesar salad with crispy croutons, fresh Romaine lettuce, and a zesty Caesar dressing adds a fresh element to your meal. The tanginess of the dressing cuts through the richness of the pasta, creating a balanced bite.

Dinner Rolls

Soft, buttery dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce. You can make your own or use store-bought rolls to keep things simple.

Cooking Tips and Techniques

Here are some additional tips and techniques that will help you make the best crack chicken penne possible:

How to Cook Chicken Perfectly

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will cause the chicken to steam rather than sear, resulting in less flavorful meat.
Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Let the Chicken Rest: Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before adding it back to the sauce. This helps to keep the chicken juicy.

Cooking the Pasta

Salt the Water Generously: Salting the pasta water is essential for flavoring the pasta. Use about 1 tablespoon of salt for every 4 quarts of water.
Cook Until Al Dente: Make sure to cook the pasta until it is al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it. This helps the pasta hold up better when mixed with the sauce.

How to Make Crack Chicken Penne in a Slow Cooker

If you want to make this dish even easier, consider using a slow cooker. Here’s how:

Prepare the Ingredients: Add the chicken, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and chicken broth to the slow cooker.
Cook on Low: Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
Cook the Pasta Separately: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions and stir it into the slow cooker just before serving.

This slow cooker method is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious, home-cooked meal without much hands-on effort.

How to Reheat Crack Chicken Penne

Reheating crack chicken penne can be a little tricky due to the creamy sauce. Here are some tips to ensure it reheats well:

Stovetop Method

Add Liquid: Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to the pasta before reheating it in a skillet over medium-low heat. This helps to bring back the creaminess of the sauce.
Stir Frequently: Stir frequently to ensure that the sauce doesn’t separate or become too thick.

Microwave Method

Cover the Dish: Place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap. This traps steam and keeps the pasta from drying out.
Heat in Intervals: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until the pasta is heated through.

Healthier Alternatives for Crack Chicken Penne

While crack chicken penne is undeniably delicious, it can be heavy. Here are some ways to make it a bit healthier:

Use Low-Fat Dairy

Low-Fat Cream Cheese: Use low-fat cream cheese instead of full-fat to cut down on calories and fat.
Reduced-Fat Cheddar: Opt for reduced-fat cheddar cheese to make the dish lighter.

Add More Vegetables

Adding more vegetables not only increases the nutritional value but also adds texture and flavor. Some good options include:

Broccoli: Steam or roast broccoli and stir it into the pasta.
Spinach: Add fresh spinach just before serving. The residual heat will wilt the spinach without overcooking it.
Cauliflower: Use cauliflower florets in place of some of the pasta to reduce the carbohydrate content.

Whole Wheat Pasta

Switching to whole wheat penne pasta adds more fiber, which helps keep you fuller longer and improves digestion.

A Note on Meal Prep

Crack chicken penne is a great dish for meal prep. You can prepare it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here are some meal prep tips:

Portion Out Individual Servings: Divide the pasta into individual portions before storing it. This makes it easy to grab and reheat for a quick lunch or dinner.
Store Properly: Use airtight containers to store the pasta in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

History of Crack Chicken

The concept of “crack chicken” first gained popularity in the United States, especially in the Southern states, due to its indulgent flavors and ease of preparation. The combination of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and bacon quickly became a hit because it brought together comfort food staples in one dish. Over time, variations like crack chicken penne emerged, incorporating pasta to create a more filling and complete meal.

The term “crack” in the name, while controversial to some, is meant to convey the addictive nature of the dish. Much like how people crave certain comfort foods, crack chicken penne has a flavor profile that keeps people coming back for more. The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with tender chicken and smoky bacon is truly hard to resist.

Frequently Asked Questions (Extended)

Can I Make Crack Chicken Penne Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can make crack chicken penne ahead of time. Simply prepare the dish as directed, then let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the pasta using the stovetop or microwave methods mentioned above.

Can I Use Pre-Cooked Chicken?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, can save you time. Simply shred the pre-cooked chicken and add it to the sauce when combining all the ingredients.

What Type of Bacon Works Best?

Both regular and thick-cut bacon work well in this recipe. Thick-cut bacon adds a bit more texture, while regular bacon crisps up nicely. You can also use turkey bacon as a lighter alternative.

Conclusion

Crack chicken penne is an incredibly satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Its creamy, cheesy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon come together to create a meal that’s both indulgent and comforting. The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it to suit your taste, making it an easy favorite for many households.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a comforting dish to impress guests, crack chicken penne is sure to deliver. Give it a try, and see for yourself why so many people find this dish utterly irresistible!

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