Creamy Crack Chicken Penne – The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

When you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor, Creamy Crack Chicken Penne is the perfect dish to satisfy your taste buds. This dish combines tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, cheesy goodness, and creamy ranch-seasoned sauce, all tossed together with perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the best Creamy Crack Chicken Penne—from ingredients and step-by-step instructions to pro tips, variations, storage tips, FAQs, and more.

Ingredients for Creamy Crack Chicken Penne

Before diving into the cooking process, gather these ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 4 slices thick-cut turkey bacon, chopped
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 (1-ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 8 ounces penne pasta
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Turkey Bacon

In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped turkey bacon until it turns crispy. This adds a delicious crunch and smoky flavor to the dish. Once crispy, remove it with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.

2. Cook the Chicken

Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the pan and cook over medium-high heat until browned on all sides (about 5-6 minutes). The bacon fat adds an extra layer of richness to the chicken.

3. Add Ranch Seasoning and Broth

Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the cooked chicken and stir well to coat. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Cook the Pasta

Add the penne pasta to the boiling liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to perfection and most of the liquid is absorbed.

5. Add Heavy Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture.

6. Finish the Dish

Return the cooked crispy turkey bacon to the pan and stir to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.

7. Serve and Garnish

Garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

• One-pot meal – Fewer dishes to wash!
• Full of flavor – Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with ranch seasoning.
• Quick and easy – Ready in just 40 minutes.
• Great for meal prep – Tastes even better the next day!

Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Crack Chicken Penne

1. Use freshly grated cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
2. Adjust the thickness – Add extra broth if you prefer a thinner sauce.
3. Try different pasta – Rotini or bowtie pasta work well with this dish.
4. Add vegetables – Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers add extra nutrients.
5. Use real bacon – If you’re not worried about calories, swap turkey bacon for crispy pork bacon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth or milk to maintain creaminess.

FAQs About Creamy Crack Chicken Penne

1. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all the ingredients except the pasta, cheese, and cream to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Stir in cooked pasta, cheese, and cream in the last 30 minutes.

2. Can I use a different cheese?

Absolutely! Mozzarella, Parmesan, or Pepper Jack work well.

3. How do I make it spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to give it a kick.

4. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, using shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver.

5. What should I serve with this dish?

Serve it with garlic bread, side salad, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Creamy Crack Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavorful ingredients. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving a delicious pasta dish, this recipe delivers on all fronts. With its rich, cheesy sauce, crispy turkey bacon, and ranch-seasoned chicken, every bite is an explosion of taste.

Give this recipe a try today, and let us know how much you love it! Don’t forget to share it with your friends and family!

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