Crack Chicken Penne offers a creamy, comforting dish that comes together in just one skillet. With tender chicken, crispy beef bacon, and a rich cheese sauce, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a satisfying meal that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
With only 15 minutes of prep time and a total cook time of 25 minutes, this dish is quick to put together and requires minimal cleanup. It’s an approachable recipe that yields six servings, making it an excellent choice for families or meal preppers. Get ready to impress with this easy and filling recipe!
Why This Crack Chicken Penne Is So Popular
This Crack Chicken Penne stands out for its creamy texture and the savory depth provided by smoky beef bacon and ranch seasoning. The pasta cooks perfectly in the rich chicken stock, absorbing all those wonderful flavors. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, which makes cleanup a breeze, saving you time in the kitchen without sacrificing taste.
Main Ingredients for Crack Chicken Penne
This recipe features a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together to create a satisfying dish. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 slices smoked beef bacon, adds a crispy, savory element; for a lighter option, turkey bacon can be used.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, approximately 1 pound, provides lean protein; ensure they are cut into 1-inch cubes for even cooking.
- ½ cup chopped yellow onion, contributes sweetness and depth of flavor; can substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
- ¼ teaspoon salt, enhances all the flavors; adjust based on your preference.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, adds a slight kick; fresh ground pepper gives the best flavor.
- 1 ounce packet of Ranch seasoning, infuses the dish with herby, tangy notes; a homemade mix can be used for more control over flavors.
- 4 cups unsalted chicken stock, forms the base of the sauce; low-sodium stock is a good choice for controlling salt levels.
- ½ pound penne pasta, holds the sauce well, but any short pasta like fusilli or rigatoni can be substituted.
- 6 ounces cream cheese, creates a creamy, rich sauce; full-fat is recommended for the best texture.
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup, adds creaminess and flavor; can be replaced with homemade versions if desired.
- 8 ounce block of Colby jack cheese, shredded, provides melty goodness; freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley, brightens the dish; use more or less as desired.
Kitchen Tools You Will Need
| 12-inch skillet | For cooking all the ingredients in one pan. |
| Cutting board | For safely chopping ingredients. |
| Sharp knife | Essential for dicing beef bacon, chicken, and onion. |
| Measuring cups and spoons | For accurate ingredient measurements. |
| Wooden spoon or spatula | For stirring and combining ingredients. |
| Paper towels | To drain excess grease from beef bacon. |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crack Chicken Penne
Follow these detailed steps to create your Crack Chicken Penne, ensuring each component shines and melds beautifully.
- Cook the beef bacon, In a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat, add the diced beef bacon and cook for 9-11 minutes until crispy. The beef bacon should be golden brown and fragrant. Transfer the cooked beef bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease, reserving ¼ cup for garnish. Drain off all but 2 tablespoons of the beef bacon grease from the skillet.
- Brown the chicken, Add the cubed chicken breasts, diced onion, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned and the onions are tender. The chicken may not be fully cooked through at this stage, as it will continue to cook with the pasta.
- Add flavorings, Once the chicken is lightly browned and the onions are translucent, sprinkle in the ranch seasoning and pour in the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil before adding the penne pasta. This will ensure the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors.
- Cook the pasta, Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Incorporate the creamy elements, Remove the lid and stir in the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup. Mix until fully combined and no lumps remain, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
- Add cheese and beef bacon, Stir in 1½ cups of the shredded Colby jack cheese, along with the cooked beef bacon pieces (except for the reserved ¼ cup). Ensure everything is well mixed for an even distribution of flavors.
- Melt the remaining cheese, Top the dish with the remaining ½ cup of shredded Colby jack cheese (do not stir it in). Cover the skillet again for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Garnish and serve, Remove the lid and garnish the dish with the reserved ¼ cup of beef bacon and the remaining 1 tablespoon of parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty meal!
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- For crispy beef bacon, ensure the pieces are spread out in the skillet without overcrowding.
- Do not rush the browning step for the chicken; allow it ample time to develop flavor.
- Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Use full-fat cream cheese for a thicker, creamier sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.
- Freshly shredded cheese melts more consistently; avoid pre-shredded cheese for this recipe.
- If your skillet has a lid that fits tightly, use it to trap steam and help the pasta cook evenly.
- Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning based on your taste preference; start with less if unsure.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
- Pair with a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Serve with garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Top with additional fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color.
- Consider a side of steamed broccoli or green beans for extra vegetables.
- Offer crushed red pepper flakes on the side for those who like a bit of heat.
Variations and Easy Customizations for Crack Chicken Penne
Quick Weeknight Version
To speed up the process, use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts. Simply shred the chicken and add it in step 4 along with the pasta and stock, reducing the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes.
High-Protein Version
Incorporate additional protein by adding cooked chicken sausage or shredded turkey. This will enhance the dish’s heartiness and make it even more filling.
Vegetarian Adaptation
Replace the chicken and beef bacon with sautéed mushrooms and spinach. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a rich base, and keep the cream cheese and cheese for creaminess.
Meal Prep Version
This dish stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Divide into airtight containers and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken stock if needed to loosen the sauce.
Storage, Reheating, and Meal Prep Tips
Store leftover Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock to restore creaminess and prevent the pasta from drying out. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the beef bacon can lead to a burnt taste; cook until just crispy.
- Not browning the chicken enough can result in a bland flavor; aim for a nice golden color.
- Skipping the stirring step during pasta cooking can lead to clumping; stir occasionally.
- Using low-fat cream cheese may result in a thinner sauce; stick to full-fat for best results.
- Not tasting and adjusting seasoning can lead to a bland dish; always taste before serving.
Nutrition Overview
Per serving, Crack Chicken Penne contains approximately 500-600 calories, depending on the specific brands of ingredients used. It provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. To lighten the recipe, consider using less cheese or opting for low-fat cream cheese. Incorporating more vegetables can also enhance nutritional value while keeping the flavors robust.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crack Chicken Penne
→ What is Crack Chicken Penne?
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy pasta dish that combines chicken, beef bacon, and cheese with ranch seasoning, cooked in one skillet for easy preparation.
→ How can I make Crack Chicken Penne spicier?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for an extra kick. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of Colby jack.
→ Can I use a different type of pasta for Crack Chicken Penne?
Yes, you can substitute penne with other short pasta shapes like fusilli or rigatoni, but cooking times may vary slightly.
→ How can I store leftovers of Crack Chicken Penne?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
→ Can I make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The flavors may actually develop further overnight.
Final Thoughts
Crack Chicken Penne is an easy, one-pan meal that combines convenience with a satisfying taste. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, this dish will become a staple in your recipe rotation. Try making it soon, and enjoy the blend of ingredients that create a comforting and hearty meal.
Crack Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Method
- Step 1 Cook the beef bacon , In a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat, add the diced beef bacon and cook for 9-11 minutes until crispy. The beef bacon should be golden brown and fragrant. Transfer the cooked beef bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess grease, reserving ¼ cup for garnish.
- Step 2 Brown the chicken , Add the cubed chicken breasts, diced onion, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned and the onions are tender. The chicken may not be fully cooked through at this stage, as it will continue to cook with the pasta.
- Step 3 Add flavorings , Once the chicken is lightly browned and the onions are translucent, sprinkle in the ranch seasoning and pour in the chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil before adding the penne pasta. This will ensure the pasta cooks evenly and absorbs the flavors.
- Step 4 Cook the pasta , Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Step 5 Incorporate the creamy elements , Remove the lid and stir in the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup. Mix until fully combined and no lumps remain, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
- Step 6 Add cheese and beef bacon , Stir in 1½ cups of the shredded Colby jack cheese, along with the cooked beef bacon pieces (except for the reserved ¼ cup). Ensure everything is well mixed for an even distribution of flavors.
- Step 7 Melt the remaining cheese , Top the dish with the remaining ½ cup of shredded Colby jack cheese (do not stir it in). Cover the skillet again for 3-4 minutes or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Step 8 Garnish and serve , Remove the lid and garnish the dish with the reserved ¼ cup of beef bacon and the remaining 1 tablespoon of parsley. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty meal!
Notes
- For crispy beef bacon, ensure the pieces are spread out in the skillet without overcrowding.
- Do not rush the browning step for the chicken; allow it ample time to develop flavor.
