Crack Chicken Penne

Crack chicken penne transforms ordinary pasta into an extraordinary comfort dish by combining tender penne with succulent chicken pieces, crispy bacon bits, and a luxuriously creamy ranch-seasoned sauce. The magic happens when cream cheese melts into a velvety coating, while sharp cheddar adds that irresistible golden finish that makes every forkful pure bliss.

I've made this countless times for my family gatherings, and it never fails to draw people back for seconds. My nephew, who usually avoids creamy dishes, actually requested this for his birthday dinner - that's how captivating these flavors are.

Essential Ingredients

• Penne Pasta: Choose high-quality durum wheat pasta that holds its shape when cooked. The ridged surface and hollow center perfectly capture the creamy sauce.
• Bacon: Opt for thick-cut bacon for those satisfying crispy bits that add smoky depth. Turkey bacon works too, though traditional pork bacon delivers the richest flavor.
• Chicken Breast: Fresh, boneless skinless breasts cut into even chunks ensure tender, juicy bites. Look for pieces with a pink hue and no gray spots.
• Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese creates the smoothest, richest sauce. Let it soften at room temperature for easier blending.
• Ranch Seasoning: The packet version works better than bottled dressing here, providing concentrated flavor without extra liquid.

Cooking Instructions

Step 1:

Begin by bringing a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add penne pasta and cook until just al dente, testing 1-2 minutes before the package time suggests. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Step 2:

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until each piece turns golden brown and crispy. Remove bacon but leave 1 tablespoon of the rendered fat.

Step 3:

Season diced chicken generously with black pepper and a pinch of salt. Add to the bacon fat and cook until golden outside while staying juicy inside, about 6-7 minutes.

Step 4:

Add finely diced onion to the chicken, cooking until translucent and sweet. Add garlic, stirring until aromatic. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up all the browned bits from the bottom.

Step 5:

Add softened cream cheese in small chunks, stirring until it melts into a silky sauce. Sprinkle in ranch seasoning for tangy depth.

Step 6:

Add cooked pasta to the sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece. If needed, add reserved pasta water little by little until desired consistency is achieved.

Step 7:

Fold in crispy bacon and shredded cheddar. Let the cheese melt, then finish with fresh green onions for garnish.

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Growing up, my grandmother always added cream cheese to her pasta dishes. She swore it created a silkier sauce than heavy cream alone. After years of cooking this recipe, I've found she was absolutely right - the cream cheese adds both richness and a subtle tanginess that elevates the entire dish.

Make-Ahead Magic

This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce's silky texture.

Variations to Try

Transform this versatile dish by adding sautéed mushrooms for earthiness, sun-dried tomatoes for tang, or baby spinach for color and nutrition. Each addition brings its own character while maintaining the comfort-food appeal.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette to balance the richness, Garlic bread makes an excellent companion, perfect for soaking up every last bit of the creamy sauce.

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I've served this dish countless times, and it never fails to bring smiles around the dinner table. The combination of tender pasta, creamy sauce, and smoky bacon creates something truly special - a dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, prepare up to 2 days ahead. Reheat on low heat, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore creaminess.

→ What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?

Mix dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder with buttermilk powder for a homemade version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, so add liquid when reheating.

→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, skip the chicken cooking step and add shredded rotisserie chicken with the sauce ingredients.

→ What sides go well with this pasta?

Serve with garlic bread, steamed broccoli, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.