Crack Chicken Penne

Introduction
Crack Chicken Penne is a mouthwatering, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish that has become a popular comfort food for many. Its name, “Crack Chicken,” comes from the combination of ingredients that make it irresistibly addictive and flavorful. A creamy sauce made from cream cheese, ranch seasoning, bacon, and chicken coats the penne pasta, creating a dish that is as satisfying as it is delicious. Whether you are preparing a quick weeknight dinner or serving up something hearty for a family gathering, Crack Chicken Penne offers the perfect balance of rich flavors and textures. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy goodness in every bite, it’s no wonder this dish has earned a reputation for being nearly impossible to resist.

The History of Crack Chicken Penne
The origins of Crack Chicken Penne can be traced to the growing popularity of “Crack Chicken” recipes, which emerged in various online communities and social media groups. The original “Crack Chicken” dishes were made with a combination of chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and bacon, often served in a slow cooker or Instant Pot. This flavorful creation quickly gained traction due to its simplicity and indulgent taste. Over time, variations of the recipe evolved, with the addition of penne pasta being a natural choice to create a more filling and comforting meal. The pasta version of Crack Chicken not only brings together the best elements of creamy chicken and savory bacon but also adds a hearty and satisfying base that makes it a complete dish for any occasion. As more people discovered the recipe, it became a staple in many households, especially for busy families seeking an easy, delicious, and crowd-pleasing dinner.

Ingredients Breakdown
For the Crack Chicken Penne, you’ll need penne pasta, chicken, bacon, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, shredded cheese, and chicken broth. Penne pasta is an ideal choice due to its ability to hold the creamy sauce well, offering the perfect texture in every bite. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are typically used, as they cook up tender and absorb the flavors of the sauce. Bacon adds a crispy, smoky flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce. Cream cheese is the base of the sauce, creating a rich and velvety texture. Ranch seasoning mix gives the dish its signature tangy, herby flavor, while shredded cheese (cheddar is most common) enhances the overall creaminess. Chicken broth adds depth to the sauce, making it smooth and easy to coat the pasta. These ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful meal that’s bound to become a family favorite.

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. While the pasta is cooking, cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel to drain.
3. In the same skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until it is fully cooked and no longer pink in the center. This should take about 5-7 minutes on each side. Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set it aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
5. Add the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything evenly in the creamy sauce.
6. Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, making sure the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until it’s melted and incorporated.
7. Serve the Crack Chicken Penne immediately, garnished with extra bacon and cheese if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Crack Chicken Penne
To get the perfect Crack Chicken Penne, be sure to cook the chicken until it’s fully cooked and tender before shredding it. This will help the chicken absorb the flavors of the sauce and create a more flavorful dish. When cooking the bacon, ensure it’s crispy, as this adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy sauce. Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it can become too soft and lose its texture in the sauce. If you prefer a richer sauce, feel free to add extra cream cheese or a bit more shredded cheese. If you like a little extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the sauce for added depth. For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cream cheese or opt for turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.

Variations and Customizations
While Crack Chicken Penne is already delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize the dish to suit your preferences. For a spicier kick, you can add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce. If you’re a fan of vegetables, you can stir in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor. You can also swap out the penne for another type of pasta, such as rigatoni or fusilli, to change up the texture. For a more decadent version, you can sprinkle the top with breadcrumbs and bake it in the oven for a crispy, golden crust. For those looking to make the dish healthier, you can use whole wheat pasta, lean chicken breast, and low-fat cream cheese. If you prefer a more substantial meal, consider adding cooked shrimp or sausage to the dish for added protein.

Health Considerations and Nutritional Value
While Crack Chicken Penne is undeniably delicious, it is also quite rich, so it should be enjoyed in moderation. The dish is high in calories due to the combination of cream cheese, bacon, and shredded cheese. If you’re concerned about the calorie content, there are ways to lighten up the dish. Opting for lean chicken breast, using low-fat cream cheese, and reducing the amount of bacon can significantly lower the fat content. Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute for regular pasta if you’re looking to add more fiber to the meal. Additionally, swapping out some of the creamy ingredients for healthier alternatives, such as Greek yogurt or a cauliflower-based cream sauce, can reduce the overall fat and calorie count. Nutritionally, a typical serving of Crack Chicken Penne may contain around 600-800 calories, depending on the portion size and ingredients used. It’s important to balance this indulgent dish with lighter meals throughout the day if you’re watching your calorie intake.

FAQ

1. Can I make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare Crack Chicken Penne in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of chicken broth to loosen up the sauce if it thickens too much.
2. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
   Yes! To make Crack Chicken Penne in a slow cooker, combine the chicken, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Shred the chicken and then stir in the cooked pasta and bacon. Add cheese and stir until melted before serving.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
   Absolutely! You can use mozzarella, gouda, or any cheese you prefer. Cheddar is commonly used, but feel free to experiment with other varieties for a different flavor.
4. Is there a vegetarian version of Crack Chicken Penne?
   Yes! For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with mushrooms or plant-based protein such as tofu or tempeh. You can also skip the bacon and add more vegetables for texture and flavor.
5. How can I make the sauce thicker?
   If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch mixed with a bit of chicken broth to the sauce and cook it until it thickens to your desired consistency.

Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, velvety sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone at the table.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings 6

Ingredients

  

• 4 slices thick-cut bacon
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into small bite-sized pieces
• 1 ounce ranch seasoning 1 packet or 2 tablespoons
• 8 ounces penne pasta uncooked, or any pasta of your choice
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth low-sodium or no salt added
• 4 ounces cream cheese Philadelphia recommended
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Instructions

 

• Cook the bacon in a large Dutch oven until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and drain most of the bacon fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon behind. Chop the bacon into small pieces.
• In the same pot, add the chicken and cook over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes, or until it begins to brown. The chicken will still be pink inside and not fully cooked. Add the ranch seasoning mix to the chicken and stir, ensuring each piece is coated in the seasoning.
• Next, add the uncooked penne and chicken broth to the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente or to your preference. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. There should still be some liquid remaining when the pasta is done. If necessary, add more broth, although 3 1/2 cups should be sufficient.
• Add the cream cheese to the pot and stir until it melts into a creamy sauce, ensuring most of the cream cheese is fully incorporated. Stir the bacon back into the mixture, then add about 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything until well combined and the cheese melts smoothly.
• Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the top, then cover the pot with the lid. Let it cook for about 30 seconds before turning off the heat and removing the lid. The cheese should have melted. Alternatively, you can place the Dutch oven under the broiler for about 5 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and begins to brown on top.
• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

Notes

Instant Pot Crack Chicken Penne Instructions
Start by chopping the bacon into small pieces. Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode, which will default to 30 minutes. Add the bacon and cook until it begins to brown. Once browned, transfer the bacon to a plate and drain some of the fat if needed. Add the chicken to the pot and sauté for 3 minutes until it starts to brown. Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning and stir to coat the chicken evenly.
Next, add the uncooked penne and chicken broth, and stir to combine. You will only need about 2 to 2 1/2 cups of broth. Close the Instant Pot lid (follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to properly close the lid). Set the Instant Pot to the Poultry setting and adjust the timer to 5 minutes.
Once the Instant Pot cycle is complete, allow the natural release cycle to finish, which will take about 10 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for a quick release. Carefully unlock and remove the lid.
Stir in the cream cheese until it melts into the sauce. Add the bacon and all of the cheese, then stir everything together. Serve and enjoy!

Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Penne Instructions
Begin by frying the bacon as instructed in step 1 above. Add the chicken, ranch seasoning mix, cream cheese, and chicken broth to your slow cooker. You will only need about 2 to 2 1/2 cups of broth.
Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 4 hours. About 30 minutes before the cooking time is up, stir in the uncooked penne. After the cooking time is complete, add the bacon and cheese, stir everything together, and serve.