Crack Chicken Penne is a rich and creamy pasta dish that brings together the delicious flavors of rotisserie chicken, creamy ranch sauce, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese. This decadent dish is a perfect blend of comfort food and convenience, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal at your next gathering. The creamy sauce coats the pasta and chicken perfectly, while the crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch, making each bite irresistible.

What makes Crack Chicken Penne stand out is its ability to pack a ton of flavor with minimal effort. Using rotisserie chicken saves time without compromising taste, and the ranch seasoning mix adds a burst of tanginess and savory goodness. With just a few simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can have this indulgent meal on the table in no time. Whether you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes or just looking for a new family favorite, Crack Chicken Penne is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

This dish comes together in no time, thanks to rotisserie chicken and a simple sauce made from cream cheese and ranch seasoning. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

2. Loaded with Flavor

The combination of creamy ranch dressing, sharp cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon gives this pasta dish a deliciously rich and savory taste that’s hard to resist.

3. Family-Friendly

Crack Chicken Penne is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings.

4. One-Pot Meal

The whole dish comes together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. It’s a hassle-free dinner option that doesn’t require multiple pots and pans.

5. Versatile

You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers, or by adjusting the amount of bacon and cheese to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

1 lb penne pasta
2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
¾ cup bacon, cooked and chopped
½ cup chicken broth
½ cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Variations

Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to add some veggies to the dish.
Spicy Option: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little heat.
Different Cheese: Swap out the sharp cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Turkey Bacon: Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon for a lighter version of this dish.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta for a gluten-free alternative.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Creamy Ingredients

Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet and stir until it melts into the onions and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and stir to combine, creating a smooth sauce. Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Bacon

Once the sauce is simmering, add the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy and well combined.

Step 5: Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked penne pasta and shredded chicken to the skillet, stirring gently to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Make it Creamier: If you want a creamier texture, add more heavy cream or a splash of milk to the sauce.
Crispier Bacon: For extra crunch, cook the bacon until crispy before adding it to the dish.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente to avoid it becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Use Leftovers: This recipe is a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken or turkey.
Adjust the Ranch Flavor: If you like a stronger ranch flavor, feel free to add a little extra ranch seasoning to taste.

How to Serve

Crack Chicken Penne is delicious on its own, but it can also be paired with a side salad or garlic bread for a more complete meal. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a light green salad to balance out the richness of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Freezing

You can freeze Crack Chicken Penne for up to 2-3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of liquid to bring the sauce back to life.

Reheating

To reheat, place the leftovers in a skillet over low heat. Add a little chicken broth or cream to help restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe, but you can also use any cooked chicken you have on hand.

2. Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely! You can swap penne for other pasta shapes like rigatoni, bowties, or even spaghetti.

3. Can I make this dish without bacon?

Yes, if you don’t want bacon, you can either leave it out or substitute with cooked sausage or another protein of your choice.

4. Can I use light cream cheese?

Yes, you can use light cream cheese for a slightly lower-fat option, though the texture may be a little less creamy.

5. Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! You can add spinach, mushrooms, or any other veggies you like. Just sauté them along with the onions and garlic.

6. How do I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for some heat, or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.

7. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish and refrigerate it for up to 1 day before reheating it.

8. How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it longer or add a bit more cream cheese or cheddar cheese.

9. Can I use a different cheese?

Yes, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack cheese for a different flavor.

10. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free penne pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, comforting dish that combines the best flavors of chicken, bacon, ranch seasoning, and cheddar cheese. It’s easy to make, deliciously rich, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a meal that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, Crack Chicken Penne is a dish you’ll want to make again and again.