Ingredients for Crack Chicken Penne

• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for sautéing chicken and bacon, preventing sticking and building initial flavor. Use a good quality extra virgin.
• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded: The star protein of this creamy crack chicken penne, adding tender texture and substance. Shred rotisserie chicken for ease.
• 1 pound penne pasta: The perfect pasta shape for holding the rich, creamy sauce and tender chicken. Cook al dente for ideal texture.
• 8 slices bacon, chopped: Provides irresistible smoky, salty crunch, a key component of the “crack chicken” flavor. Cook until extra crispy.
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened: The foundation of the incredibly creamy, tangy sauce, making this dish so comforting. Ensure it’s fully softened for smooth blending.
• 1 cup chicken broth: Adds essential liquid to the sauce, helping it become silky smooth while infusing savory depth. Low-sodium helps.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream: Elevates the sauce to ultimate luxurious creaminess and richness, creating a truly decadent experience. Don’t substitute.
• 1 (1 ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix: The signature flavor builder for “crack chicken,” delivering that irresistible savory, zesty kick. Hidden Valley is great.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a sharp, tangy, comforting cheesy element. Shred your own.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: An essential aromatic, providing a pungent, savory base flavor that complements all other ingredients. Freshly minced is best.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory depth and complements the ranch flavor without adding texture. A pantry staple for balanced seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the flavors, bringing out the best in every ingredient. Always season to taste throughout cooking.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth and peppery kick, rounding out the savory profile. Freshly ground pepper is highly recommended.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Provides a vibrant pop of color and fresh herbal brightness, cutting through the richness beautifully. Chop just before serving.

How to Make Crack Chicken Penne

Cook Pasta & Bacon:

Start by cooking your penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. While that simmers, crisp up the chopped bacon in a large skillet until golden. This sets the perfect base for our ultimate Crack Chicken Penne.

Sauté & Simmer:

Drain most bacon fat, leaving about a tablespoon in the skillet. Sauté minced garlic for one minute until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and softened cream cheese, whisking until smooth.

Build Flavor:

Reduce heat to low. Stir in ranch seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce becomes perfectly smooth and rich. This creates the signature flavor.

Simmer Sauce:

Let the creamy sauce gently simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld beautifully. Ensure it thickens slightly but remains pourable. This low-heat cooking prevents the sauce from breaking or scorching.

Combine Dish:

Add the cooked penne, shredded chicken, and crispy bacon to the creamy sauce. Toss everything gently until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the irresistible Crack Chicken Penne sauce.

Garnish & Serve:

Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top for a vibrant finish. Serve your comforting Crack Chicken Penne immediately, perhaps with a side salad, and enjoy this incredibly satisfying weeknight meal.

How to Store Crack Chicken Penne

To store leftover Crack Chicken Penne, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Otherwise, the pasta can dry out and the sauce might separate, losing its creamy texture – don’t do what I did and leave it uncovered! Discard if you notice any off smells.

For make-ahead convenience, prep the bacon and shredded chicken up to 2 days in advance, storing them separately. Combine with fresh sauce and pasta just before serving for the best results. When reheating, a splash of chicken broth or milk helps restore the sauce’s creaminess.

What to Serve with Crack Chicken Penne

Serve this comforting Crack Chicken Penne hot, straight from the pot. Garnish with extra fresh parsley for a vibrant touch. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner. Pair it with a crisp green salad or warm, crusty bread to truly enjoy every creamy bite.

I personally love to serve it directly from the skillet, family-style. This keeps it warm and makes for a wonderfully communal and casual dining experience. It’s the perfect way to enjoy this hearty meal together.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I prevent a lumpy or broken sauce when making Crack Chicken Penne?

To prevent lumps, ensure cream cheese is fully softened and whisk it smoothly with liquids. Simmer gently on low heat; I’ve had sauces break by rushing it. Tempering with warm broth helps a lot.

→ Can I freeze leftover Ultimate Crack Chicken Penne for a future easy meal?

Freezing isn’t ideal for Crack Chicken Penne. The pasta can become mushy, and the creamy sauce might separate upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep components ahead.

→ Can I substitute different cheeses or liquids in this creamy Crack Chicken Penne recipe?

Yes, you can experiment. For cheese, use Monterey Jack or Colby. Instead of heavy cream, milk can work but the sauce will be thinner. I’ve found broth substitution changes the richness too much.

→ Can I make this creamy Crack Chicken Penne recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes, easily! Use your favorite gluten-free penne pasta; follow package directions for cooking. Ensure your ranch seasoning mix is certified gluten-free, as some contain hidden ingredients.

→ How long can I store leftover Creamy Crack Chicken Penne in the refrigerator?

Leftover Crack Chicken Penne stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Always reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess; uncovered pasta dries out fast.