Crack Chicken Penne

This American-style Crack Chicken Penne recipe is the real deal – cheesy, full of savory flavor, the perfect creaminess…yet easy to achieve. Instead of complicated steps, this hands-off pasta recipe requires just 15 minutes of initial prep time. If you’ve ever found baked pasta intimidating, this recipe is for you!

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We all learn. A couple years ago, I said about my homemade mac and cheese:

“Comfort food, by nature, isn’t a quick one-pot meal-with-ingredients-you-probably-have-on-hand. A good pasta bake takes time, a few pots, and most likely a trip to the nearest specialty grocery store.”

Yet here I am. 2 years years later. Older, wiser, a mom of 2, a little less time and will in the kitchen.

And I’ve created a 30-minute skillet Crack Chicken Penne recipe. If you cook family dinners often, you probably have the ingredients on hand too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Some meals disappear fast, and this one always does.

Big comfort energy: Creamy, cheesy, and satisfying.

Simple steps: Easy enough after a long day.

Crowd friendly: Everyone enjoys these flavors.

One pot style: Less cleanup later.

Hearty texture: Chicken and pasta keep it filling.

Leftovers shine: Still tastes amazing the next day.

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Ingredients

For the Pasta Base:

• 8 ounces penne
• 1 pound chicken breast boneless and skinless cut into small bite size pieces
• 3½ cups chicken broth

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
• 1 ounce ranch seasoning

For the Flavor Boost:

• 4 slices bacon
• 1 tablespoon parsley chopped

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Step by Step Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon

Place bacon slices in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Cook until crisp, turning as needed. Transfer bacon to a plate and chop once cooled. Leave a small amount of bacon fat in the pan.

2. Brown the Chicken

Add chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook while stirring until lightly golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside with the bacon.

3. Build the Base

Pour chicken broth into the same skillet. Bring it to a gentle boil, then add penne. Stir often and cook until the pasta turns tender and most of the liquid absorbs.

4. Create the Sauce

Lower the heat. Add cream cheese and ranch seasoning. Stir slowly until the sauce turns smooth and creamy.

5. Bring It Together

Return chicken and bacon to the pan. Sprinkle in cheddar cheese and stir until melted and well mixed with the pasta.

6. Finish and Rest

Remove the skillet from heat. Let the pasta sit for a few minutes so the sauce thickens and coats every bite.

7. Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley before serving for a fresh touch.

Tips & Variations

• Add a splash of broth if the sauce thickens too much.
• Colby Jack works great here.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Rotini or shells hold sauce nicely.
• Use reduced fat cream cheese.

Serving Suggestions

Crack Chicken Penne stands strong on its own, but garlic bread pairs perfectly for soaking up leftover sauce. A simple side salad adds balance to the rich flavors.

When friends come over, I like serving this straight from the skillet. It feels casual, cozy, and inviting with very little effort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre cooked bacon?

Yes just add it near the end to warm through.

Does this reheat well?

Yes store leftovers in the fridge up to three days.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes stir it in after the sauce forms.

What if the sauce feels thick?

Add a splash of broth and stir gently.

Is ranch dressing the same?

No the seasoning works best here.

Can I freeze it?

The texture changes slightly but still tastes good.

Final Thoughts

Crack Chicken Penne brings bold comfort flavors together in one creamy pan. The mix of chicken, bacon, cheese, and ranch always hits that cozy spot.

This recipe fits busy nights and relaxed weekends alike. One bowl feels filling, rich, and exactly what comfort food should be.