Crack Chicken Penne

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Get ready to fall in love with comfort food all over again. Crack Chicken Penne is the perfect combination of creamy cheese sauce, tender shredded chicken, and penne pasta baked to golden perfection. It’s rich, satisfying, and comes together with minimal effort—just what busy weeknights call for.

This dish has a secret weapon: a flavor-packed blend of ranch, bacon, cheddar, and cream cheese that clings to every bite of pasta. Think of it as a loaded chicken Alfredo, but with a smoky, tangy twist that makes it downright addictive. One forkful and you’ll see why this dish has earned its “crack” reputation.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

You can use rotisserie chicken for speed and convenience or cook and shred your own chicken breasts or thighs for a more customized flavor. If you want extra texture, slightly seared or grilled chicken adds a subtle smokiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

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Ingredients for the Crack Chicken Penne

• Penne Pasta: Holds up well to thick sauces and captures every bit of cheesy goodness.
• Shredded Cooked Chicken: The hearty protein that makes this a satisfying main course.
• Cream Cheese: Adds richness and helps create that luscious, creamy texture.
• Cheddar Cheese: For bold flavor and gooey melt.
• Ranch Seasoning: The zingy backbone of the “crack” flavor profile.
• Bacon Crumbles: Smoky, salty bits that take it over the top.
• Milk or Heavy Cream: Loosens the sauce to coat the pasta just right.
• Butter: Helps meld everything into a smooth sauce and adds a silky finish.
• Parsley (optional): A fresh pop of color and flavor right before serving.

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How To Make the Crack Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a large skillet or saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the cream cheese and stir until softened and smooth. Pour in milk or heavy cream gradually, whisking constantly until the sauce is velvety.

Step 3: Add the Flavor

Stir in ranch seasoning and shredded cheddar cheese. Let the cheese melt fully into the sauce, creating that iconic cheesy ranch blend. Then, toss in the cooked chicken and bacon crumbles, stirring everything together until combined.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked pasta into the sauce mixture and gently fold until all the penne is coated in that rich, creamy goodness. Make sure the chicken and bacon are well distributed throughout.

Step 5: Bake Until Bubbly

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheddar cheese if desired. Bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let sit for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh touch and serve warm.

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Serving and Storing Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne is best served hot right out of the oven, when the cheese is at peak meltiness and the sauce is creamy and rich. Pair it with a light green salad or steamed veggies to balance the decadence. Garlic bread also makes a great companion to soak up the extra sauce.

For leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream and warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave to restore its creamy texture.

You can also freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While penne is ideal, you can substitute with rotini, rigatoni, or shells—any pasta that holds sauce well.

Is there a way to make this lower in fat?

Absolutely. Use reduced-fat cream cheese, light cheddar, and turkey bacon. Swap heavy cream for milk or a plant-based option.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prepare everything and refrigerate it in the baking dish. When ready to serve, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if baking from cold.

What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?

You can use a mix of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley as a quick homemade version.

Does it work as a one-pot meal?

Yes, you can cook the pasta separately and combine it in the same skillet as the sauce to minimize cleanup. For oven-free cooking, skip the bake and serve straight from the stovetop.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you’re hooked on this Crack Chicken Penne, wait until you try these other crave-worthy dishes:

• Creamy Broccoli and Chicken Penne for a green twist on the classic.
• Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sauteed Garlic Butter Chicken when you want bold garlic and silky richness.
• One Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta for a one-skillet dinner solution.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan when you’re craving serious cheesy indulgence.
• One Pot Creamy Chicken Pasta Dinner for another easy and comforting weeknight meal.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add broccoli? Use spicy ranch mix? Or maybe even toss in some jalapeños?

I love seeing your creative spins on these recipes. Drop your questions or tips below and let’s make every dinner a winner.

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