Creamy Crack Chicken Penne

This creamy crack chicken penne combines the irresistible flavors of bacon, ranch, and chicken in a comforting pasta dish that's become my weeknight dinner hero. The rich, cheesy sauce clings perfectly to every bite of pasta, creating a meal that both kids and adults will devour.

I first developed this recipe when I needed a quick dinner solution after a hectic workday. Now it's requested at least twice a month in our home, especially during the colder seasons when we crave something hearty and comforting.

Ingredients

• Penne pasta: Forms the perfect base and captures all the creamy sauce in its ridges and hollow centers
• Bacon: Adds smoky flavor and crispy texture that elevates the entire dish
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provide lean protein and become tender and flavorful when cooked in the bacon drippings
• Yellow onion: Creates a savory foundation for the sauce
• Garlic: Adds depth and aroma that complements the ranch flavors
• Chicken broth: Helps create a silky sauce while adding richness
• Sour cream: Contributes tanginess and creaminess to balance the rich flavors
• Cream cheese: Creates an ultra smooth and velvety texture in the sauce
• Dry ranch dressing mix: The secret ingredient that gives this dish its addictive flavor profile
• Cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully for that stretchy cheese pull everyone loves
• Green onions: Add fresh color and a mild bite that cuts through the richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package directions until al dente, usually about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when added back to the sauce later.

Crisp the Bacon:

Add chopped bacon to a large, cold pot, then turn heat to medium high. Cook until the fat renders and the bacon becomes crispy, about 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. Remove the crispy bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and place on paper towels to drain, leaving the flavorful grease in the pot.

Cook the Chicken:

Pour off all but 1 tablespoon of bacon grease from the pot. Add the cubed chicken breast to the hot bacon fat and season generously with salt and pepper. Allow the chicken to sear undisturbed for 2 minutes before stirring to develop golden brown edges, then continue cooking until nearly done, about 5 minutes total.

Sauté the Aromatics:

Add the diced yellow onion to the pot with the chicken and cook until the onions become soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. The moisture from the onions will help release any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute until fragrant but not browned, as garlic can quickly become bitter if overcooked.

Create the Sauce:

Pour in the chicken broth, dollop in the sour cream and cream cheese, then sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix, salt, pepper, and dried parsley. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has completely melted into the sauce and created a smooth consistency. Add the crispy bacon back to the pot and bring the mixture to a gentle bubble.

Combine and Finish:

Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese in handfuls, allowing each addition to melt completely before adding more. This prevents the sauce from becoming grainy. Fold in the cooked pasta and stir gently but thoroughly to coat every piece with the creamy sauce. Allow everything to simmer together for about 5 minutes, which helps the pasta absorb some of the sauce flavors.

Garnish and Serve:

Remove from heat and let the pasta rest for 2 minutes, which will allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped green onions for color and fresh flavor contrast before serving.

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My favorite part of this recipe is how the ranch seasoning transforms simple ingredients into something incredibly addictive. I discovered this combination when experimenting with leftover ingredients in my pantry, and my husband declared it was better than any restaurant pasta he'd ever had.

Make-Ahead Options

This crack chicken penne actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together. If preparing ahead, cook the pasta slightly less than al dente since it will continue to soften when reheated. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce, as it will thicken considerably when chilled.

Perfect Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten this dish, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon and reduced-fat cream cheese and sour cream. For a gluten-free version, simply swap the penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully as a time-saving alternative to cooking raw chicken breasts. Just skip the chicken cooking step and add the shredded rotisserie chicken when you add the sauce ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty pasta dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a complete meal that will impress guests, serve with garlic bread or homemade breadsticks for sopping up the delicious sauce. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy flavors perfectly for an adult dinner party.

The Story Behind "Crack" Chicken

The name "crack chicken" has become popular in home cooking circles because the combination of ranch seasoning, bacon, and cheese creates a flavor profile that's utterly addictive. The term is meant to highlight how impossible it is to stop eating once you start. This particular variation adds pasta to the mix, transforming the popular dip and sandwich filling into a complete meal that satisfies even the heartiest appetites.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of pasta works best for this dish?

Penne pasta is ideal for this recipe as its tubular shape holds the creamy sauce well. You can also use rigatoni or ziti as substitutes.

→ Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken works perfectly. Simply skip the sautéing step and add shredded or cubed chicken when combining the ingredients.

→ What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese can be used as substitutes for sour cream, providing a similar tangy, creamy texture.

→ How do I make this dish spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the ranch dressing mix and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.