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Crack Chicken Penne combines the irresistible trio of ranch, bacon, and cheese with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta into one gloriously creamy dish. All made in a single pot, this comfort food masterpiece delivers maximum flavor with minimal cleanup - exactly what you need for those busy weeknight dinners.
I started making this recipe when my kids were going through their picky eating phase. The first time I served it, there was complete silence at the dinner table - everyone was too busy eating to talk!
Essential Ingredients
- Bacon: Choose thick-cut for meatier bites that hold up in the sauce
- Chicken Breasts: Cut into even pieces for consistent cooking
- Ranch Seasoning: The secret ingredient that ties everything together
- Penne Pasta: The ridges catch and hold the creamy sauce perfectly
- Cream Cheese: Creates that luxurious, velvety sauce base
- Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for the best flavor
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth while cooking the pasta
- Fresh Parsley: Brightens the final dish
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Detailed Cooking Instructions
- Perfect the Bacon:
- Cook bacon in Dutch oven until properly crispy
- Remove and drain, leaving 1 tablespoon fat in pot
- Chop into bits once cooled
The reserved fat will flavor the entire dish
- Cook the Chicken:
- Brown chicken pieces in bacon fat
- Add ranch seasoning to coat evenly
- Don't fully cook - it'll finish with the pasta
This layering of flavors is crucial
- Create the One-Pot Magic:
- Add pasta and broth
- Bring to boil, then reduce to simmer
- Cover and cook until pasta is al dente
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
- Make it Creamy:
- Stir in cream cheese until melted
- Add bacon bits back to pot
- Mix in cheddar cheese gradually
- Let sauce thicken slightly
My daughter's friend's mom called me for this recipe after her daughter raved about having it at our house. She said it's now their Monday night tradition!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Cube cream cheese before adding for faster melting
- Cook bacon ahead of time for quick weeknight assembly
- Save some bacon bits for garnish
- Test pasta 2 minutes before suggested cooking time
This recipe has become my ultimate crowd-pleaser. The way the ranch seasoning infuses every bite, while the bacon adds smokiness and the two kinds of cheese create the most luxurious sauce - it's simply irresistible. Plus, watching everyone go back for seconds always makes me smile.
Serving and Storage Guide
- Storage:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore creaminess
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating
When reheating, I've found that stirring frequently and adding a touch of cream helps maintain that silky sauce texture.
Perfect Pairings
- Garlic roasted broccoli
- Crisp garden salad with light vinaigrette
- Sautéed green beans with garlic
- Roasted cherry tomatoes
Variations to Try
- Swap chicken for turkey for a lighter version
- Add sautéed mushrooms for extra umami
- Mix in spinach for added nutrition
- Use different pasta shapes like rotini or bow ties
- Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick
Troubleshooting Tips
- If sauce is too thick, add warm chicken broth gradually
- For too thin sauce, simmer uncovered for a few minutes
- If pasta isn't cooked enough, add more hot broth and continue cooking
- To prevent grainy sauce, let cream cheese come to room temperature first
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Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook and crumble bacon up to 3 days ahead
- Cut chicken and store in marinade overnight
- Measure and combine dry ingredients
- Shred cheese in advance
Final Thoughts
This Crack Chicken Penne has earned its place as a family favorite in countless households, mine included. The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its incredible flavor, but in its adaptability and forgiving nature. Even kitchen novices can achieve great results, while experienced cooks can add their own creative touches.
Remember, the key to perfect crack chicken penne is patience with the sauce development and careful attention to pasta cooking time. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers comfort food satisfaction every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why is it called crack chicken?
- The combination of ranch seasoning, bacon, and cheese is so addictively good it earned this nickname.
- → Can I use different pasta?
- Yes, any similar-sized pasta works. Cooking time may vary slightly.
- → How do I prevent pasta from sticking?
- Stir occasionally while cooking and ensure enough liquid covers the pasta.
- → Can I make this ahead?
- Yes, but sauce may thicken when cooled. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth.
- → Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
- Yes, rotisserie or leftover chicken works well. Add with the pasta.