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Crack Chicken Penne Flavorful and Hearty Meal

by on June 15, 2025

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Crack Chicken Penne is a dish you won’t forget. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. Best of all, it’s easy to make. In this post, I will guide you through each step. You’ll learn about the key ingredients, how to whip up the sauce, and some great tips for perfecting your meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this hearty and delightful recipe!

To make Crack Chicken Penne, you will need a mix of tasty and simple ingredients. Here’s what you will gather for this hearty meal: - 12 oz penne pasta - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 packet ranch seasoning mix - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - ½ cup green onions, sliced - 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (substitute with plant-based bacon if desired) - Salt and pepper to taste Each ingredient plays a key role in the dish. The penne pasta serves as a perfect base. The chicken breasts bring protein and heartiness. Olive oil helps to cook the chicken, while ranch seasoning adds that special flavor. Cream cheese makes the sauce rich and creamy. Chicken broth enhances the sauce, while cheddar cheese adds extra flavor and creaminess. Green onions give a fresh touch, and bacon adds a delightful crunch. Don’t forget salt and pepper to make everything taste just right. When you gather these ingredients, you set the stage for a meal that is not just filling but also full of flavor. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. - Once the water boils, add 12 oz of penne pasta. - Cook the penne until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. - Drain the pasta and set it aside for later. - Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. - Season 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. - Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. - Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then shred it using two forks. - In the same skillet, combine 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix. - Stir until creamy and smooth. - Gradually add 1 cup of chicken broth while stirring to combine. - Heat until the sauce is warm and smooth, making sure not to boil. - Add the shredded chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. - Toss in the cooked penne pasta and stir until well coated in the sauce. - Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. - Fold in 1 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon if you desire. - Top the dish with ½ cup of sliced green onions for a fresh taste. - Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. - Serve the Crack Chicken Penne in attractive bowls, garnished with more cheese and green onions. To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F inside. This will keep your dish safe and tasty. Always let the chicken rest before shredding. This keeps it juicy. For al dente pasta, cook the penne for about 1-2 minutes less than the package says. This means you will have a firm bite, which really enhances the dish. After draining, toss the pasta with a little olive oil. This prevents sticking. To boost flavor, try adding garlic powder or onion powder to the ranch mix. You can also stir in some fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This adds a fresh taste to your meal. If you want it spicier, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder version, simply reduce the ranch mix. You can also use a cream cheese with herbs for a nice twist. For side dishes, a fresh salad pairs well. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is perfect. You can also serve Crack Chicken Penne with garlic bread or steamed vegetables. Garnish the dish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of more cheese. This makes it look nice and adds some crunch. Serve it in large bowls for a cozy meal feel. Pro Tips Cook Pasta Perfectly: Always cook your pasta al dente to maintain a nice texture that holds up when mixed with the sauce. Season Your Chicken: Don’t skip on seasoning the chicken before cooking; it enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green onions and quality cheddar cheese make a significant difference in taste and presentation. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. {{image_2}} If you want to make this dish plant-based, consider using plant-based bacon. It adds a smoky flavor without meat. Brands like tempeh bacon or coconut bacon work well. You can also use dairy-free cream cheese. Look for brands that taste rich and creamy. They blend well into sauces and keep the dish smooth. You can swap the chicken for turkey or tofu. Turkey gives a leaner taste, while tofu absorbs all the flavors. If you love seafood, shrimp is a tasty choice too. Just cook it until it turns pink. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. To change the flavor, try adding different spices or sauces. A sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder can enhance the taste. You can also mix in a bit of hot sauce for a kick. Using assorted cheeses is another fun idea. Blend cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a creamy, zesty flavor. To store leftovers, cool the dish to room temp. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents spills. Crack Chicken Penne lasts in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. You can reheat Crack Chicken Penne in the microwave or on the stove. For the microwave, use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. On the stove, add a splash of chicken broth in a skillet. Heat on low and stir until warm. To keep it creamy, avoid high heat and stir often. To freeze Crack Chicken Penne, let it cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat using the same methods mentioned above. Add a bit of broth if it seems dry after thawing. Yes, you can make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time. To do this, prepare the dish fully and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce seems thick. Absolutely! Crack Chicken Penne is great for meal prep. You can divide it into individual portions for easy lunches or dinners. Just store each portion in a sealed container. This makes it easy to grab and go. Plus, it tastes just as good reheated. Crack Chicken Penne pairs well with many sides. A simple green salad adds freshness. Garlic bread is a tasty option too. You might also enjoy steamed veggies for a healthy balance. Pair it with a light white wine or iced tea for drinks. Yes, you can easily make Crack Chicken Penne gluten-free. Use gluten-free penne pasta instead of regular pasta. Many brands offer good options. Just check the label to ensure it meets your needs. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal! Crack Chicken Penne blends simple ingredients into a delicious meal. We covered each step, from cooking pasta to mixing in cheese and bacon. Remember to adjust flavors to fit your taste. You can easily customize this dish with substitutions or new proteins. Don’t forget the best practices for cooking and storage. Enjoy this comforting dish with friends or family, and feel free to experiment with your own twists. Cooking can be fun and creative, and Crack Chicken Penne is a great dish to try!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Convenient and Quick: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavorful and Creamy: The combination of ranch seasoning and cream cheese creates a rich, creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
  3. Customizable: You can easily swap out the chicken for plant-based alternatives or add extra veggies to suit your dietary preferences.
  4. Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a great choice for family dinners.

Ingredients

To make Crack Chicken Penne, you will need a mix of tasty and simple ingredients. Here’s what you will gather for this hearty meal:

– 12 oz penne pasta

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 packet ranch seasoning mix

– 8 oz cream cheese, softened

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– ½ cup green onions, sliced

– 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (substitute with plant-based bacon if desired)

– Salt and pepper to taste

Each ingredient plays a key role in the dish. The penne pasta serves as a perfect base. The chicken breasts bring protein and heartiness. Olive oil helps to cook the chicken, while ranch seasoning adds that special flavor. Cream cheese makes the sauce rich and creamy. Chicken broth enhances the sauce, while cheddar cheese adds extra flavor and creaminess. Green onions give a fresh touch, and bacon adds a delightful crunch. Don’t forget salt and pepper to make everything taste just right.

When you gather these ingredients, you set the stage for a meal that is not just filling but also full of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

– Start by boiling salted water in a large pot.

– Once the water boils, add 12 oz of penne pasta.

– Cook the penne until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes.

– Drain the pasta and set it aside for later.

Preparing the Chicken

– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

– Season 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper.

– Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.

– Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then shred it using two forks.

Creating the Sauce

– In the same skillet, combine 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix.

– Stir until creamy and smooth.

– Gradually add 1 cup of chicken broth while stirring to combine.

– Heat until the sauce is warm and smooth, making sure not to boil.

Mixing Everything Together

– Add the shredded chicken back into the skillet with the sauce.

– Toss in the cooked penne pasta and stir until well coated in the sauce.

– Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

– Fold in 1 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon if you desire.

Final Touches and Serving

– Top the dish with ½ cup of sliced green onions for a fresh taste.

– Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.

– Serve the Crack Chicken Penne in attractive bowls, garnished with more cheese and green onions.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Cooking

To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F inside. This will keep your dish safe and tasty. Always let the chicken rest before shredding. This keeps it juicy.

For al dente pasta, cook the penne for about 1-2 minutes less than the package says. This means you will have a firm bite, which really enhances the dish. After draining, toss the pasta with a little olive oil. This prevents sticking.

Enhancing Flavor

To boost flavor, try adding garlic powder or onion powder to the ranch mix. You can also stir in some fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This adds a fresh taste to your meal.

If you want it spicier, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder version, simply reduce the ranch mix. You can also use a cream cheese with herbs for a nice twist.

Serving Suggestions

For side dishes, a fresh salad pairs well. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is perfect. You can also serve Crack Chicken Penne with garlic bread or steamed vegetables.

Garnish the dish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of more cheese. This makes it look nice and adds some crunch. Serve it in large bowls for a cozy meal feel.

Pro Tips

  1. Cook Pasta Perfectly: Always cook your pasta al dente to maintain a nice texture that holds up when mixed with the sauce.
  2. Season Your Chicken: Don’t skip on seasoning the chicken before cooking; it enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
  3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green onions and quality cheddar cheese make a significant difference in taste and presentation.
  4. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency.

Variations

Ingredient Substitutions

If you want to make this dish plant-based, consider using plant-based bacon. It adds a smoky flavor without meat. Brands like tempeh bacon or coconut bacon work well. You can also use dairy-free cream cheese. Look for brands that taste rich and creamy. They blend well into sauces and keep the dish smooth.

Different Protein Options

You can swap the chicken for turkey or tofu. Turkey gives a leaner taste, while tofu absorbs all the flavors. If you love seafood, shrimp is a tasty choice too. Just cook it until it turns pink. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

Flavor Twist Ideas

To change the flavor, try adding different spices or sauces. A sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder can enhance the taste. You can also mix in a bit of hot sauce for a kick. Using assorted cheeses is another fun idea. Blend cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a creamy, zesty flavor.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store leftovers, cool the dish to room temp. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents spills. Crack Chicken Penne lasts in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date.

Reheating Instructions

You can reheat Crack Chicken Penne in the microwave or on the stove. For the microwave, use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. On the stove, add a splash of chicken broth in a skillet. Heat on low and stir until warm. To keep it creamy, avoid high heat and stir often.

Freezing Guidelines

To freeze Crack Chicken Penne, let it cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat using the same methods mentioned above. Add a bit of broth if it seems dry after thawing.

FAQs

Can I make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?

Yes, you can make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time. To do this, prepare the dish fully and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce seems thick.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Crack Chicken Penne is great for meal prep. You can divide it into individual portions for easy lunches or dinners. Just store each portion in a sealed container. This makes it easy to grab and go. Plus, it tastes just as good reheated.

What can I serve with Crack Chicken Penne?

Crack Chicken Penne pairs well with many sides. A simple green salad adds freshness. Garlic bread is a tasty option too. You might also enjoy steamed veggies for a healthy balance. Pair it with a light white wine or iced tea for drinks.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make Crack Chicken Penne gluten-free. Use gluten-free penne pasta instead of regular pasta. Many brands offer good options. Just check the label to ensure it meets your needs. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal!

Crack Chicken Penne blends simple ingredients into a delicious meal. We covered each step, from cooking pasta to mixing in cheese and bacon. Remember to adjust flavors to fit your taste. You can easily customize this dish with substitutions or new proteins. Don’t forget the best practices for cooking and storage. Enjoy this comforting dish with friends or family, and feel free to experiment with your own twists. Cooking can be fun and creative, and Crack Chicken Penne is a great dish to tr

To make Crack Chicken Penne, you will need a mix of tasty and simple ingredients. Here’s what you will gather for this hearty meal: - 12 oz penne pasta - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 packet ranch seasoning mix - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - ½ cup green onions, sliced - 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon (substitute with plant-based bacon if desired) - Salt and pepper to taste Each ingredient plays a key role in the dish. The penne pasta serves as a perfect base. The chicken breasts bring protein and heartiness. Olive oil helps to cook the chicken, while ranch seasoning adds that special flavor. Cream cheese makes the sauce rich and creamy. Chicken broth enhances the sauce, while cheddar cheese adds extra flavor and creaminess. Green onions give a fresh touch, and bacon adds a delightful crunch. Don’t forget salt and pepper to make everything taste just right. When you gather these ingredients, you set the stage for a meal that is not just filling but also full of flavor. {{ingredient_image_1}} - Start by boiling salted water in a large pot. - Once the water boils, add 12 oz of penne pasta. - Cook the penne until al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. - Drain the pasta and set it aside for later. - Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. - Season 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and pepper. - Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. - Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then shred it using two forks. - In the same skillet, combine 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix. - Stir until creamy and smooth. - Gradually add 1 cup of chicken broth while stirring to combine. - Heat until the sauce is warm and smooth, making sure not to boil. - Add the shredded chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. - Toss in the cooked penne pasta and stir until well coated in the sauce. - Mix in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. - Fold in 1 cup of cooked and crumbled bacon if you desire. - Top the dish with ½ cup of sliced green onions for a fresh taste. - Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. - Serve the Crack Chicken Penne in attractive bowls, garnished with more cheese and green onions. To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer. The chicken should reach 165°F inside. This will keep your dish safe and tasty. Always let the chicken rest before shredding. This keeps it juicy. For al dente pasta, cook the penne for about 1-2 minutes less than the package says. This means you will have a firm bite, which really enhances the dish. After draining, toss the pasta with a little olive oil. This prevents sticking. To boost flavor, try adding garlic powder or onion powder to the ranch mix. You can also stir in some fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This adds a fresh taste to your meal. If you want it spicier, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a milder version, simply reduce the ranch mix. You can also use a cream cheese with herbs for a nice twist. For side dishes, a fresh salad pairs well. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette is perfect. You can also serve Crack Chicken Penne with garlic bread or steamed vegetables. Garnish the dish with extra green onions or a sprinkle of more cheese. This makes it look nice and adds some crunch. Serve it in large bowls for a cozy meal feel. Pro Tips Cook Pasta Perfectly: Always cook your pasta al dente to maintain a nice texture that holds up when mixed with the sauce. Season Your Chicken: Don’t skip on seasoning the chicken before cooking; it enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh green onions and quality cheddar cheese make a significant difference in taste and presentation. Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth until you reach your desired consistency. {{image_2}} If you want to make this dish plant-based, consider using plant-based bacon. It adds a smoky flavor without meat. Brands like tempeh bacon or coconut bacon work well. You can also use dairy-free cream cheese. Look for brands that taste rich and creamy. They blend well into sauces and keep the dish smooth. You can swap the chicken for turkey or tofu. Turkey gives a leaner taste, while tofu absorbs all the flavors. If you love seafood, shrimp is a tasty choice too. Just cook it until it turns pink. You can also add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. To change the flavor, try adding different spices or sauces. A sprinkle of paprika or garlic powder can enhance the taste. You can also mix in a bit of hot sauce for a kick. Using assorted cheeses is another fun idea. Blend cheddar with mozzarella or pepper jack for a creamy, zesty flavor. To store leftovers, cool the dish to room temp. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the flavors fresh and prevents spills. Crack Chicken Penne lasts in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. You can reheat Crack Chicken Penne in the microwave or on the stove. For the microwave, use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between. On the stove, add a splash of chicken broth in a skillet. Heat on low and stir until warm. To keep it creamy, avoid high heat and stir often. To freeze Crack Chicken Penne, let it cool completely. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. Squeeze out as much air as possible. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat using the same methods mentioned above. Add a bit of broth if it seems dry after thawing. Yes, you can make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time. To do this, prepare the dish fully and let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce seems thick. Absolutely! Crack Chicken Penne is great for meal prep. You can divide it into individual portions for easy lunches or dinners. Just store each portion in a sealed container. This makes it easy to grab and go. Plus, it tastes just as good reheated. Crack Chicken Penne pairs well with many sides. A simple green salad adds freshness. Garlic bread is a tasty option too. You might also enjoy steamed veggies for a healthy balance. Pair it with a light white wine or iced tea for drinks. Yes, you can easily make Crack Chicken Penne gluten-free. Use gluten-free penne pasta instead of regular pasta. Many brands offer good options. Just check the label to ensure it meets your needs. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious meal! Crack Chicken Penne blends simple ingredients into a delicious meal. We covered each step, from cooking pasta to mixing in cheese and bacon. Remember to adjust flavors to fit your taste. You can easily customize this dish with substitutions or new proteins. Don’t forget the best practices for cooking and storage. Enjoy this comforting dish with friends or family, and feel free to experiment with your own twists. Cooking can be fun and creative, and Crack Chicken Penne is a great dish to try!

Crack Chicken Penne

A creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring shredded chicken, ranch seasoning, and cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup green onions, sliced
  • 1 cup cooked and crumbled bacon
  • to taste salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Add them to the skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and no longer pink inside. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes, then shred the chicken with two forks.
  • In the same skillet, add the cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until creamy, then gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring to combine. Heat until the sauce is smooth and heated through.
  • Add the shredded chicken back into the skillet along with the cooked penne pasta. Stir until everything is well coated in the creamy ranch sauce.
  • Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. Fold in the crumbled bacon if using.
  • Top with sliced green onions for freshness. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

Notes

Serve in large bowls with additional shredded cheese and green onions for an attractive presentation. Consider pairing with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
Keyword chicken, creamy, pasta, ranch

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