Crack Chicken Penne: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Crack Chicken Penne
Crack Chicken Penne is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience that brings warmth and joy to any dinner table. This creamy pasta dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and rich cheeses for a meal that is sure to please everyone in the family. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, this recipe is straightforward and packed with flavor, making it an ideal choice for cooks of all skill levels.
A Personal Story Behind My Crack Chicken Penne Journey
I remember the first time I made Crack Chicken Penne for my family. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted to create something comforting yet simple. As the aroma filled the kitchen, I knew I had struck gold. My family’s smiles and satisfied sighs said it all; this dish had quickly become a favorite. Since then, I’ve made it countless times, tweaking little things here and there until it was just right. Now, I’m excited to share this beloved recipe with you!
What Makes This Crack Chicken Penne Recipe Special?
What sets this Crack Chicken Penne apart is its creamy texture and savory flavors that meld beautifully together. The combination of ranch seasoning and cream cheese creates a luscious sauce that coats every piece of pasta, while the crispy bacon adds an enjoyable crunch. Plus, it’s a one-skillet meal, making cleanup a breeze! Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this dish is bound to impress.
The Full Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 slices smoked bacon, cut into ½-inch diced pieces (reserve ¼ cup for garnish)
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes (approx. 1 pound)
- ½ cup chopped yellow onion
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ounce ranch seasoning
- 4 cups unsalted chicken stock or low-sodium
- ½ pound penne pasta
- 6 ounces cream cheese
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 8 ounces Colby jack cheese, shredded (divided into 1½ cups and ½ cup)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley, divided
Instructions
- In a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat, add the diced bacon. Cook for 9-11 minutes until crispy, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve ¼ cup of the cooked bacon for garnish and set aside the rest. Drain off all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease from the skillet. Tip: Keep an eye on the bacon to prevent burning, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cubed chicken, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned. It’s okay if the chicken isn’t fully cooked at this stage.
- Once the chicken is browned and the onions are tender, stir in the ranch seasoning and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the pasta is tender. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Remove the lid and stir in the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup until fully combined and smooth.
- Add 1½ cups of the shredded Colby jack cheese, the cooked bacon (except for the reserved ¼ cup), and 1 tablespoon of the chopped parsley. Mix well to combine.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded Colby jack cheese on top (do not stir). Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Remove the lid and garnish with the reserved ¼ cup of bacon and the remaining 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Crack Chicken Penne
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a side salad or garlic bread. For variations, consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You can also substitute the penne pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or farfalle, to keep things interesting. If you like a little kick, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crack Chicken Penne
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding cheese, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove and add the cheese before serving.
Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?
You can make your own blend with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder if you prefer a homemade touch.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 450
- Servings: 6
Crack Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 slices smoked bacon cut into ½-inch diced pieces (reserve ¼ cup for garnish)
- 2 pieces boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes (approx. 1 pound)
- 0.5 cup chopped yellow onion
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 ounce ranch seasoning
- 4 cups unsalted chicken stock or low-sodium
- 0.5 pound penne pasta
- 6 ounces cream cheese
- 10.5 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 8 ounces Colby jack cheese shredded (divided into 1½ cups and ½ cup)
- 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley divided
Instructions
- In a large 12-inch skillet over medium heat, add the diced bacon. Cook for 9-11 minutes until crispy, then transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Reserve ¼ cup of the cooked bacon for garnish and set aside the rest. Drain off all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease from the skillet.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the cubed chicken, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes until the chicken is lightly browned. It’s okay if the chicken isn’t fully cooked at this stage.
- Once the chicken is browned and the onions are tender, stir in the ranch seasoning and chicken stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the penne pasta. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 15-20 minutes until the pasta is tender.
- Remove the lid and stir in the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup until fully combined and smooth.
- Add 1½ cups of the shredded Colby jack cheese, the cooked bacon (except for the reserved ¼ cup), and 1 tablespoon of the chopped parsley. Mix well to combine.
- Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of shredded Colby jack cheese on top (do not stir). Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts.
- Remove the lid and garnish with the reserved ¼ cup of bacon and the remaining 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley.