Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, comforting dish that brings together the smoky essence of beef bacon, tender chicken, and rich cheeses in a single skillet. This recipe not only delivers on flavor but also offers a satisfying meal that comes together in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. With its mouthwatering aroma and creamy sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again.
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cooking time of 25 minutes, this dish is designed for those who want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It serves six, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week. The combination of creamy cheese, savory beef bacon, and tender chicken creates a dish that is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Why This Crack Chicken Penne Is So Popular
This Crack Chicken Penne stands out due to its perfect blend of textures and flavors. The crispy beef bacon adds a delightful crunch, while the creamy sauce envelops the penne pasta, creating a rich and indulgent dish. The use of ranch seasoning infuses the chicken with a zesty flavor that elevates the entire meal. Additionally, the one-pan preparation means fewer dishes to wash, making it a practical choice for home cooks.
Main Ingredients for Crack Chicken Penne
Understanding the key ingredients helps in appreciating the dish’s flavor profile and texture. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6 slices smoked beef bacon, cut into ½-inch pieces, adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, approximately 1 pound, cut into 1-inch cubes, provides lean protein and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
- ½ cup chopped yellow onion, adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon salt, enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper, adds a subtle heat and balances the flavors.
- 1 ounce packet of Ranch seasoning, infuses the dish with a zesty, herbaceous flavor.
- 4 cups unsalted chicken stock, serves as the base for the sauce, providing moisture and richness.
- ½ pound penne pasta, holds the creamy sauce well and adds texture.
- 6 ounces cream cheese, adds creaminess and richness to the sauce.
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup, thickens the sauce and adds flavor.
- 8 ounce block of Colby jack cheese, shredded, divided into 1½ cups and ½ cup, adds melty goodness and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley, divided, used for garnish and a fresh touch.
Kitchen Tools You Will Need
| Tool | Purpose |
| 12-inch skillet | For cooking the beef bacon, chicken, and sauce in one pan. |
| Cutting board | For safely chopping the vegetables and chicken. |
| Sharp knife | For easily cutting beef bacon and chicken into pieces. |
| Measuring cups and spoons | For accurately measuring ingredients. |
| Wooden spoon | For stirring the ingredients while cooking. |
| Paper towels | For draining cooked beef bacon. |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Crack Chicken Penne
Follow these detailed steps to create your own Crack Chicken Penne. Each step is crafted to ensure clarity and ease of execution.
- Cook the beef bacon, In a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat, add the diced beef bacon. Cook for 9-11 minutes until crispy, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, transfer the beef bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve ¼ cup of the cooked beef bacon for garnish and set aside. Drain off all but 2 tablespoons of the beef bacon grease from the skillet.
- Brown the chicken, Add the cubed chicken breasts, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and the onions are tender. The chicken may not be fully cooked through at this stage.
- Add seasoning and stock, Once the chicken is browned and onions are tender, stir in the ranch seasoning and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
- Incorporate cream cheese and soup, Remove the lid and stir in the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup until fully combined, ensuring there are no lumps remaining.
- Add cheese and beef bacon, Stir in 1½ cups of shredded Colby jack cheese, the cooked beef bacon (except for the reserved ¼ cup), and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Melt the cheese topping, Top the dish with the remaining ½ cup of shredded Colby jack cheese and do not stir it in. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese melts on top.
- Garnish and serve, Remove the lid and garnish the dish with the reserved ¼ cup of beef bacon and the remaining 1 tablespoon of parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
- For crispy beef bacon, ensure the skillet is hot before adding the beef bacon. This helps achieve that perfect crunch.
- Don’t rush the browning of the chicken; let it develop a nice golden color for enhanced flavor.
- Stir the mixture occasionally while the pasta cooks to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Full-fat cream cheese will yield a thicker, creamier sauce compared to lower-fat options.
- Using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded cheese will result in better melting and creaminess.
- If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken stock to loosen it up before serving.
- For meal prep, this dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
- Pair with a fresh garden salad to balance the richness of the dish.
- Serve with garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Top with extra chopped parsley or sliced green onions for a fresh finish.
- Complement with steamed broccoli or green beans for added nutrition and color.
- Drizzle with hot sauce for those who like a bit of heat.
Variations and Easy Customizations for Crack Chicken Penne
Quick Weeknight Version
For a faster version, use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breasts. Simply shred the rotisserie chicken and add it to the dish when mixing in the cream cheese and soup.
High-Protein Version
Incorporate additional protein by adding cooked and crumbled turkey or beef chicken sausage. This adds extra flavor and makes the dish more filling.
Vegetarian Adaptation
Replace the beef bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a vegetarian alternative. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to maintain the flavors.
Meal Prep Version
This dish stores well and can be portioned into containers for easy reheating. Simply follow all the steps and cool before refrigerating.
Storage, Reheating, and Meal Prep Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, this dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock if necessary to maintain creaminess.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken; this can trap steam and prevent browning.
- Make sure to reserve some beef bacon for garnish; it adds a nice finishing touch.
- Keep an eye on the pasta while it cooks to avoid overcooking and mushiness.
- Be careful not to let the cheese sit too long on the heat after melting, as it can become tough and rubbery.
- Use unsalted chicken stock to control the saltiness of the dish, as other ingredients also contribute salt.
- Don’t skip the fresh parsley; it adds a much-needed brightness to the dish.
Nutrition Overview
This Crack Chicken Penne recipe offers a hearty meal with a balance of protein, carbs, and fats. Each serving contains approximately 450 calories, depending on portion sizes. To lighten the dish, consider using low-fat cream cheese and reducing the amount of cheese used. Alternatively, to enrich the dish, add more cheese or protein-packed ingredients like Greek yogurt.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crack Chicken Penne
→ What makes Crack Chicken Penne different from other pasta dishes?
Crack Chicken Penne stands out due to its combination of creamy sauce, smoky beef bacon, and ranch seasoning, which gives it a unique flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.
→ Can I make Crack Chicken Penne in advance?
Yes, you can make Crack Chicken Penne in advance. Prepare the dish, cool it, and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge or freeze for longer storage.
→ Is there a vegetarian version of Crack Chicken Penne?
Absolutely! You can create a vegetarian version by substituting beef bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh and using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.
→ How do I reheat Crack Chicken Penne?
To reheat, thaw any frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or milk to maintain creaminess.
→ Can I use a different type of pasta for Crack Chicken Penne?
Yes, you can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Final Thoughts
Give Crack Chicken Penne a try for a satisfying weeknight meal that combines rich flavors and delightful textures. Its creamy sauce and smoky beef bacon make it a standout dish that’s sure to impress. With straightforward steps and familiar ingredients, it’s a recipe that’s both approachable and rewarding. Enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones, and watch it become a new favorite in your home!
Crack Chicken Penne
Ingredients
- 6 slices smoked beef bacon
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup chopped yellow onion
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ounce packet of Ranch seasoning
- 4 cups unsalted chicken stock
- ½ pound penne pasta
- 6 ounces cream cheese
- 10.5 ounce can cream of chicken soup
- 8 ounce block of Colby jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Step 1 Cook the beef bacon , In a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat, add the diced beef bacon. Cook for 9-11 minutes until crispy, stirring occasionally. Once cooked, transfer the beef bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Step 2 Brown the chicken , Add the cubed chicken breasts, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is lightly browned and the onions are tender. The chicken may not be fully cooked through at this stage.
- Step 3 Add seasoning and stock , Once the chicken is browned and onions are tender, stir in the ranch seasoning and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, add the penne pasta.
- Step 4 Incorporate cream cheese and soup , Remove the lid and stir in the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup until fully combined, ensuring there are no lumps remaining.
- Step 5 Add cheese and beef bacon , Stir in 1½ cups of shredded Colby jack cheese, the cooked beef bacon (except for the reserved ¼ cup), and 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley. Mix until everything is well combined.
- Step 6 Melt the cheese topping , Top the dish with the remaining ½ cup of shredded Colby jack cheese and do not stir it in. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 3-4 minutes, or until the cheese melts on top.
- Step 7 Garnish and serve , Remove the lid and garnish the dish with the reserved ¼ cup of beef bacon and the remaining 1 tablespoon of parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For crispy beef bacon, ensure the skillet is hot before adding the beef bacon. This helps achieve that perfect crunch.
- Don’t rush the browning of the chicken; let it develop a nice golden color for enhanced flavor.
