Do Share Recipe

Crack Chicken Penne Recipe | Creamy, Cheesy, Addictive Pasta

I made this Crack Chicken Penne Recipe last night, and let me tell you—it’s the kind of meal that makes everyone ask for seconds! The creamy sauce, smoky bacon, and ranch flavor come together perfectly with tender pasta.

It’s cozy, flavorful, and super easy to whip up after a long day. You can also try our Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne Recipe for another comforting twist on this classic combo.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Crack Chicken Penne

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a role in creating that creamy, savory goodness that makes it “crack-worthy.” Here’s what you’ll need:

1 lb. penne pasta – Holds the creamy sauce beautifully; you can use rotini or rigatoni too.
2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – Freshly shredded chicken breast gives the best texture and flavor.
8 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled – Adds that smoky, salty crunch. Avoid using pre-cooked bacon for richer flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps sauté the aromatics evenly.
1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
2 cloves garlic, minced – Brings that warm, comforting aroma.
2 cups chicken broth – Helps loosen the sauce while adding extra flavor.
1 cup cream cheese, softened – The secret to that luscious, creamy base.
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded – Use freshly grated cheese—it melts smoother than pre-shredded.
½ cup ranch dressing – Infuses that signature crack chicken flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste – Balance all the rich flavors perfectly.
¼ cup chopped parsley – For a bright, fresh finishing touch.

Note: This recipe serves about 6 hearty portions—perfect for a family dinner or leftovers for lunch the next day!

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Make Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

This creamy pasta dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it an easy weeknight favorite. Let’s go step-by-step to make sure it turns out perfect every time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta Perfectly

Start by boiling your penne pasta in salted water according to package directions. Make sure it’s al dente—it’ll continue cooking a bit once mixed with the sauce. Drain it well and set aside so it’s ready when the sauce is done.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Let them sauté until fragrant and soft, about 3–4 minutes. This step builds the flavor foundation for your creamy sauce, so don’t rush it!

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, then add softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing. Stir continuously until the cheeses are melted and the sauce becomes silky and smooth. It should coat the back of a spoon easily—rich, creamy, and irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, and cooked penne pasta to your creamy sauce. Stir everything gently until the pasta is fully coated and the chicken and bacon are evenly distributed. This is where all the flavors blend beautifully together.

Step 5: Season and Garnish

Taste the pasta and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Finally, sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving—it adds color and freshness that balance out the richness.

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

After trying this recipe a few times, I’ve picked up some little tricks that make a big difference:

Use freshly grated cheese—it melts smoother and gives a richer flavor.
Don’t skip the garlic—it adds incredible depth to the creamy sauce.
If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.
For extra indulgence, top with more cheddar and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly.
I sometimes add a handful of spinach for color and a subtle earthy flavor.

Variations to Try

You can easily tweak this recipe to fit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few delicious ideas to experiment with for your next dinner recipes collection:

Low-carb option: Swap pasta with cooked zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Dairy-free version: Use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free shredded cheese.
Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or a spoonful of buffalo sauce.
Loaded veggie style: Toss in broccoli, peas, or spinach for added nutrition.

Equipment You’ll Need

Keep these tools handy to make the cooking process easier:

Large pot – To cook the pasta evenly.
Skillet or sauté pan – For making the creamy sauce and combining everything.
Wooden spoon – Helps stir the sauce without scratching your pan.
Colander – For draining the pasta perfectly.
Cheese grater – Freshly grated cheese makes all the difference!

How to Serve Crack Chicken Penne

Presentation makes your dish even more inviting! Here are a few easy serving ideas:

Sprinkle extra cheddar on top before serving.
Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for color.
Serve it with a crisp side salad or garlic bread.
Pair it alongside our Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe for a comforting Italian-inspired dinner.

Calories Count (Per Serving)

Calories: 650 kcal
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fat: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g

How to Store Crack Chicken Penne

To store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Place cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container; it’ll last up to 2 months.
To reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this creamy pasta will become a staple in your kitchen:

Quick and easy: Ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish.
Crowd-pleaser: Everyone—from kids to adults—loves its cheesy, ranchy flavor.
Flexible: You can easily adjust ingredients or add veggies.
Perfect for leftovers: Tastes even better the next day!
Comfort food heaven: Creamy, savory, and loaded with bacon—need I say more?

Final Thoughts

This Crack Chicken Penne Recipe is everything you want in a comfort meal—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, it’s a guaranteed hit. The combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch creates a crave-worthy sauce that hugs every bite of pasta.

If you love easy, flavor-packed meals, don’t forget to check out our Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne Recipe next—you’ll be hooked after one taste!

Ben Carraoli