Description
How to make creamy crack chicken penne with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and savory ranch that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- Base & Main Components:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Flavor Builders:
- 1 (1 ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Finishing & Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
Whisk softened cream cheese and liquids until completely smooth to prevent a lumpy, broken sauce.
Store leftover Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Substitute cheddar with Monterey Jack or Colby cheese; milk can replace heavy cream for a thinner sauce.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair with a crisp green salad or warm, crusty bread.
Prep bacon and shredded chicken up to two days in advance for convenient make-ahead meal preparation.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten