Description

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy, and flavorful pasta dish loaded with tender chicken and crispy bacon. This easy, comforting recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and guaranteed to be a family favorite!

Ingredients

Scale

12 oz penne pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
4 oz cream cheese (softened)
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream or milk
1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded)
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (optional)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
2 tbsp butter or olive oil
2 tbsp fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

. Cook the Pasta

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

2. Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

3. Sear the Chicken

Heat butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest before slicing or shredding.

4. Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add chicken broth and ranch seasoning mix, stirring to deglaze the pan.
Reduce heat to medium, then add cream cheese and heavy cream, whisking until smooth.

5. Combine Everything

Stir in cooked pasta, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and half of the crumbled bacon.
Mix well until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.

6. Melt the Cheese

Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top (if using), cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.

7. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with the remaining bacon and chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Notes

Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Vegetable Addition: Toss in spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Extra Creamy: Add an extra ½ cup of heavy cream or more cheese.
Crockpot Version: Combine all ingredients (except pasta) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in cooked pasta before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: crack chicken penne, creamy chicken pasta, bacon ranch pasta, easy weeknight dinner, cheesy chicken recipe