Crack Chicken Penne is a dish that has quickly become a favorite among families and food enthusiasts alike. Loaded with tender chicken, ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, and lots of creamy cheese, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. The rich, savory flavors blend perfectly to create a meal that’s not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to prepare.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special to serve guests, Crack Chicken Penne fits the bill. The combination of pasta, cheese, and chicken with the tangy kick of ranch seasoning makes it an irresistible dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love Crack Chicken Penne
Crack Chicken Penne is more than just another pasta dish—it’s a flavor explosion. The combination of ranch seasoning, cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon creates a savory, creamy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. Here are a few reasons why this dish has become so popular:
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and minimal prep time, Crack Chicken Penne is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy: The sauce is incredibly rich, thanks to the combination of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this dish by adding vegetables, switching up the cheese, or using different types of pasta.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The flavors in this dish are universally loved, making it a great option for feeding a crowd.
Ingredients for Crack Chicken Penne
To create this delicious dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb penne pasta: The sturdy shape of penne is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: You can use leftover chicken, rotisserie chicken, or cook fresh chicken breasts.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix: This adds the signature tangy flavor that makes this dish so addictive.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Cream cheese gives the sauce a rich and creamy texture.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar adds sharpness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled: Bacon adds a smoky, crispy element that complements the creamy sauce.
- 2 cups chicken broth: The broth adds moisture and depth to the sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Heavy cream makes the sauce extra rich and luxurious.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlic flavor that enhances the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Complements the garlic and adds depth to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season the dish to your preference.
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional): Adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
How to Make Crack Chicken Penne
Making Crack Chicken Penne is straightforward and only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Here’s how to do it:
1. Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
In a large skillet, combine the softened cream cheese, chicken broth, and heavy cream over medium heat. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth. This creamy base is the heart of the dish, providing a rich and velvety sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
3. Add Seasonings
Once the sauce is smooth, add the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to ensure that the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the sauce. These seasonings bring the signature “crack” flavor to the dish, making it incredibly flavorful.
4. Incorporate the Chicken and Pasta
Next, add the shredded cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the cooked penne pasta. Stir everything together until the sauce evenly coats the chicken and pasta. The pasta will absorb some of the sauce, making each bite creamy and delicious.
5. Melt the Cheddar Cheese
Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet, stirring until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. The cheddar cheese adds a sharp, tangy flavor that enhances the richness of the dish.
6. Add the Bacon
Stir in the crumbled bacon, reserving a small amount to sprinkle on top for garnish if desired. The bacon adds a smoky, crispy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
7. Simmer the Sauce
Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. This step allows the flavors to meld together and ensures that the sauce clings to the pasta.
8. Garnish and Serve
Finally, garnish the dish with fresh parsley and the reserved bacon crumbles before serving. The parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch that balances the richness of the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Crack Chicken Penne is a hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:
- Garlic Bread: Serve the pasta with garlic bread or garlic knots to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts are great side dishes that add a healthy balance to the meal.
Tips for Success
- Use Freshly Cooked Chicken: While rotisserie chicken works well, cooking fresh chicken breasts and shredding them yourself ensures the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the penne until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to loosen it. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to thicken.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them when ready to serve.
Variations
Crack Chicken Penne is a versatile dish that can be customized in many ways. Here are a few variations to try:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate cooked broccoli, spinach, or peas into the pasta for added nutrition and color.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy twist.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Gouda, or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta and check that your ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, rigatoni, or farfalle.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time. Store the sauce and pasta separately in the refrigerator, and combine them when ready to serve. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce is too thick.
3. Is there a way to lighten up this dish?
You can lighten up the dish by using reduced-fat cream cheese, low-fat cheddar cheese, and substituting half-and-half for heavy cream. Keep in mind that this will alter the richness of the sauce.
4. Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
5. What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can make your own by mixing dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Alternatively, Italian seasoning can be used for a different flavor.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Penne is a delicious and comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its rich, creamy sauce and flavorful ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or something special for a gathering. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and cheesy pasta is simply irresistible, and the versatility of the dish allows you to customize it to your liking. Try making Crack Chicken Penne tonight and enjoy a meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious!