Crack Chicken Penne: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Crack Chicken Penne: Just the name alone is enough to make your mouth water, isn’t it? This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s an explosion of flavor that will have everyone begging for seconds. Imagine creamy, cheesy, bacon-infused goodness coating perfectly cooked penne pasta, all brought together with tender, shredded chicken. It’s comfort food elevated to an art form.

While the exact origins of Crack Chicken Penne are shrouded in mystery, its popularity has exploded across the internet, becoming a modern-day classic. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined in a way that creates pure culinary magic. Think of it as a deconstructed chicken bacon ranch sandwich, transformed into a satisfying and shareable pasta bake.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The creamy sauce is rich and decadent, the bacon adds a salty, smoky crunch, and the chicken provides a hearty, savory element. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make, making it a weeknight winner for busy families or a crowd-pleasing option for potlucks and gatherings. Trust me, once you try this Crack Chicken Penne, you’ll understand why it’s so addictive!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 packet (1 oz) Ranch dressing mix
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 lb penne pasta
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Preparing the Chicken:

1. First, let’s get the chicken ready. I like to start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts. This helps them cook more evenly and keeps the dish a little healthier.
2. Now, season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – it really makes a difference! If you like a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet.
4. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are nicely browned and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
5. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a cutting board to cool slightly.
6. Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, shred it using two forks. You can also use a stand mixer with the paddle attachment on low speed for a super quick shred. Set the shredded chicken aside.

Cooking the Pasta:

1. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. The salt is important – it seasons the pasta from the inside out!
2. Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Al dente means “to the tooth” in Italian – the pasta should be firm but not hard.
3. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well in a colander. Don’t rinse the pasta – we want that starchy water to help the sauce cling to it.

Making the Crack Chicken Sauce:

1. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, Ranch dressing mix, and mayonnaise. Make sure the cream cheese is really soft, or you’ll end up with a lumpy sauce. You can microwave it for a few seconds if needed.
2. Mix everything together until it’s smooth and creamy. I like to use an electric mixer for this, but you can also do it by hand with a whisk or spatula.
3. Add the shredded cheddar cheese (reserving about 1/4 cup for topping) and the cooked, crumbled bacon to the cream cheese mixture. Stir to combine.
4. Now, add the shredded chicken and the cooked penne pasta to the bowl with the sauce. Gently toss everything together until the chicken and pasta are evenly coated in the creamy, cheesy sauce.
5. Pour in the chicken broth. This will help to loosen up the sauce and make it extra creamy. Stir well to incorporate the broth.
6. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a dash of garlic powder.

Baking (Optional):

While this dish is delicious as is, you can also bake it for an extra layer of cheesy goodness. This step is totally optional, but I highly recommend it!

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pour the Crack Chicken Penne mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
3. Sprinkle the reserved shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the dish is heated through.

Serving and Garnishing:

1. Remove the Crack Chicken Penne from the oven (if baking) and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. This adds a pop of color and a fresh, oniony flavor.
3. Serve hot and enjoy! This dish is great on its own, but it also pairs well with a side salad or some garlic bread.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
• Add veggies: Stir in some cooked broccoli florets, diced bell peppers, or corn for added nutrients and flavor.
• Use different cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or Colby Jack.
• Make it lighter: Use light cream cheese and mayonnaise to reduce the fat content. You can also use ground chicken or turkey instead of chicken breasts.
• Slow Cooker Version: You can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients (except the pasta) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Shred the chicken and stir in the cooked pasta before serving.
• Make it ahead: You can assemble the Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.

Storage Instructions:

Store leftover Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutritional Information (approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

• Calories: Approximately 600-700 per serving
• Fat: 30-40g
• Protein: 40-50g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g

Enjoy your delicious and easy Crack Chicken Penne! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Crack Chicken Penne isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen in your kitchen! Seriously, if you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that’s both incredibly easy and unbelievably delicious, this is it. The creamy, cheesy sauce, the tender chicken, and the satisfying bite of penne pasta all come together to create a symphony of textures and tastes that will have everyone begging for seconds. It’s comfort food elevated, and trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a regular in your rotation.

But what makes this recipe a true must-try? It’s the perfect balance of savory and slightly spicy, thanks to the ranch seasoning and cream cheese. The bacon adds a smoky depth that complements the chicken beautifully, and the cheddar cheese melts into a gooey, irresistible blanket of goodness. It’s a dish that appeals to all ages and palates, making it ideal for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in.

And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your preferences. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. If you’re not a fan of bacon (though, who isn’t?), you can substitute it with diced ham or even leave it out altogether. For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar cheese.

Serving Suggestions:

* Serve it as a main course with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
* Top it with chopped green onions or fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
* For a heartier meal, add some steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables to the pasta.
* Leftovers are fantastic for lunch the next day – just reheat and enjoy!

Variations to Explore:

* Crack Chicken Penne with a Twist: Add a can of drained diced tomatoes for a slightly tangy flavor.
* Spicy Crack Chicken Penne: Incorporate jalapeños or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.
* Healthier Crack Chicken Penne: Use whole wheat penne pasta and light cream cheese.
* Crack Chicken Penne Casserole: Bake the finished dish in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese for a bubbly, golden-brown crust.

I’m so confident that you’ll love this Crack Chicken Penne recipe. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Don’t be surprised if it becomes your new go-to comfort food!

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven (or not, depending on if you make it on the stovetop), and get ready to experience the magic of this amazing dish. I can’t wait to hear what you think!

I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try. And when you do, please share your experience! Let me know in the comments below what you thought of it, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable, and I love hearing from you. Happy cooking!