When comfort food meets a flavor explosion, you get Crack Chicken Penne. This rich and creamy dish combines juicy chicken breast, smoky bacon, a dreamy ranch-seasoned cream sauce, and perfectly al dente penne pasta. It’s hearty, indulgent, and quick enough for a weeknight dinner while feeling like a restaurant-level treat.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to impress guests, this one-pan wonder will have everyone coming back for seconds. The balance of textures – from the crispy bacon to the tender chicken and the luscious sauce hugging every pasta piece – makes this recipe a knockout. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can add spinach, mushrooms, or even a bit of spice to make it your own.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this recipe, but boneless thighs can also work beautifully for extra richness. Just be sure to slice them thinly for even cooking and to allow that flavorful sauce to soak into every bite.

Ingredients for the Crack Chicken Penne

Chicken Breast: Lean, tender, and perfect for soaking up the sauce. Slice thin for quicker cooking.
Penne Pasta: The tubular shape grabs onto the sauce, making every bite creamy and satisfying.
Bacon: Crispy and smoky, it adds salty depth and a crunchy contrast.
Cream Cheese: This gives the sauce its signature richness and velvety texture.
Ranch Seasoning: The heart of the “crack” flavor. Adds herbs, tang, and a familiar savory punch.
Chicken Broth: Helps create the sauce while infusing the pasta with flavor as it cooks.
Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the sauce for extra gooeyness and sharpness.
Heavy Cream: Balances the tang of the cream cheese and adds silkiness.
Garlic and Onion Powder: Boost the savoriness and round out the flavor.
Parsley (optional): Adds a fresh pop of green and brightness at the end.

How To Make the Crack Chicken Penne

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

In a large skillet or deep pan, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving a bit of bacon grease in the pan for flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season thinly sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic and onion powder. Sear in the bacon fat until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In the same pan, add cream cheese and a splash of chicken broth. Stir until melted and smooth. Add ranch seasoning, remaining broth, and heavy cream. Let it simmer gently.

Step 4: Add Pasta & Simmer

Stir in the uncooked penne pasta. Cover and simmer until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, about 12-15 minutes.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add the cooked chicken and crispy bacon back to the pan. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and mix until melty and combined. Garnish with parsley if desired.

How to Serve and Store Crack Chicken Penne

Serve this dish hot, straight from the skillet, with a sprinkle of extra cheese or bacon if you’re feeling indulgent. It makes a cozy dinner for four and pairs perfectly with a glass of chilled white wine.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream on the stove or in the microwave to revive the sauce’s creamy texture.

What to Serve With Crack Chicken Penne?

Garlic Bread

A classic side that’s perfect for mopping up every drop of that delicious sauce.

Roasted Broccoli

The slightly bitter, crispy greens balance the richness of the pasta beautifully.

Caesar Salad

A crisp, tangy salad offers a refreshing contrast and keeps the meal from feeling too heavy.

Sauteed Spinach

Add greens with ease and minimal effort.

Grilled Asparagus

Its natural earthy notes are a great partner for cheesy, creamy sauces.

Cherry Tomato Salad

Light and juicy, this bright side dish adds color and acidity to cut through the richness.

Stuffed Mushrooms

These bite-sized umami bombs work wonderfully as a starter or a fun side.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into cheesy, cozy comfort food with big flavor, try these next:

Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a beefy, creamy dinner delight.
Creamy Beef and Shells with a nostalgic school-night twist.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta — no oven needed!
Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a low-carb creamy alternative.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole if you want melty layers and baked goodness.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you toss in mushrooms or a hint of red pepper flakes? Did you try using a different cheese?

I love hearing your twists on these recipes. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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