Looking for a creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting dish to add to your collection of recipe ideas? This Crack Chicken Penne recipe has you covered! Bursting with the mouthwatering flavors of tender chicken, savory ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar cheese, all combined with hearty penne pasta, this one-pot wonder is a guaranteed hit. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, it’s a meal everyone will want seconds of!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy and Creamy Goodness: Packed with cream cheese, sour cream, and melted cheddar for a rich, indulgent taste.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: Easily adapt with your favorite pasta, veggies, or proteins.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: A satisfying dish that’s sure to please every palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Penne Pasta: 12 oz, cooked al dente
- Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and chopped
- Chicken Breast: 1 lb, boneless, skinless, and cubed
- Yellow Onion: 1 small, finely diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Chicken Broth: 1 ½ cups
- Sour Cream: ½ cup
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened
- Ranch Dressing Mix: 1 packet (1 oz)
- Cheddar Cheese: 1 ½ cups, shredded
- Dried Parsley: 1 tsp
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Green Onion: Chopped, for garnish
How to Make Crack Chicken Penne
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Prepare penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Step 2: Crisp the Bacon
In a large pot or skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on a paper towel, reserving about 1 tablespoon of the grease in the pot.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
Season chicken cubes with salt and pepper. Sauté in the reserved bacon grease over medium heat until golden and cooked through.
Step 4: Add Onion and Garlic
Stir in diced onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
Step 5: Create the Sauce
Pour in chicken broth, sour cream, cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, and parsley. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add cooked pasta, shredded cheddar, and chopped bacon to the pot. Mix well and simmer for about 5 minutes to meld flavors.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped green onion and serve immediately. Enjoy this creamy delight!
Tips for Success
- Soft Cream Cheese: Use softened cream cheese to ensure a smooth sauce.
- Low-Sodium Broth: Opt for low-sodium chicken broth to balance the saltiness from bacon and ranch seasoning.
- Al Dente Pasta: Prevent mushy pasta by cooking it slightly firm.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream.
- Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein: Try turkey, sausage, or shrimp for a different twist.
- Pasta: Use rotini, ziti, or farfalle instead of penne.
- Vegetables: Add spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for added nutrients.
- Spices: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based cream cheese and coconut milk for a vegan option.
Conclusion
This Crack Chicken Penne is more than just a pasta dish—it’s the ultimate in comfort food and an excellent addition to your list of recipe ideas. Creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying, it’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a family favorite!
Happy cooking! Don’t forget to share your experience with this easy and flavorful recipe idea.