Are you ready to experience a flavor explosion that will have you coming back for more? Then youāre in the right place! This crack chicken penne recipe is more than just a meal; itās an experience. Imagine tender chicken, creamy cheese, and a hint of spice, all hugging perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s comfort food at its finest, guaranteed to become a family favorite.
But why is it called “crack chicken?” The name stems from its undeniably addictive nature. It’s that good! And while weāre not advocating anything harmful, we *are* advocating for a truly delicious and craveable dinner. This recipe is simple enough for weeknight meals but impressive enough to serve guests. Get ready to become the hero of your kitchen! Let’s dive into how to make this culinary masterpiece.
Crack Chicken Penne Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook bacon until crispy. Crumble and set aside.
- Shred cooked chicken breasts and set aside.
- In a large skillet or pot, melt cream cheese over medium heat. Whisk in ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder until smooth.
- Gradually whisk in milk until the sauce reaches a creamy consistency. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and crumbled bacon to the sauce. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Unveiling the Secrets: Ingredients and Prep for Your Creamy Crack Chicken Penne
Before we get cooking, let’s gather our ingredients. The beauty of this easy crack chicken penne recipe lies in its simplicity. You probably already have some of these items in your pantry and fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken: 1.5 ā 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders. (We’ll cook this, or you can use pre-cooked shredded chicken for speed!)
- Pasta: 1 pound penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape ā rotini and farfalle work well too!)
- Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened. (Full-fat cream cheese provides the creamiest results, but lower-fat works too)
- Ranch Dressing Mix: 1 (1-ounce) packet. (This is the secret weapon!)
- Bacon: 8-10 slices, cooked and crumbled. (Because, bacon!)
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded. (Sharp cheddar is the classic choice, but a blend is fantastic too!)
- Milk: 1 cup (or heavy cream for extra richness)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons
- Black Pepper: To taste
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh chives or parsley, for a touch of freshness. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Now, letās get prepared. This is about the prep work before the cooking process!
- Cook the Bacon: Cook your bacon until crispy. You can do this in a skillet, in the oven (375Ā°F for 15-20 minutes), or even in the microwave (if youāre in a rush!). Once it’s cooled, crumble it and set it aside.
- Cook the Chicken: You have a few options here:
- Skillet Method: Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt and pepper. Cook in a skillet with a little butter or oil over medium heat until cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Slow Cooker Method: Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker. Sprinkle with ranch dressing mix. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shredded. Then, shred the chicken with two forks.
- Instant Pot Method: Add a cup of chicken broth to your Instant Pot and place the chicken inside. Cook at high pressure for 8-10 minutes (depending on the thickness of the chicken). Naturally release the pressure. Shred the chicken.
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package directions, usually in a pot of boiling salted water. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Donāt overcook it; it will continue to cook in the sauce.
- Shred the Cheese: Shred your cheddar cheese. Get that cheddar nice and ready!
With these preparations complete, you’re ready to assemble the main event!
Crafting the Creamy Sauce: The Heart of Your Delicious Crack Chicken Pasta
The creamy sauce is the heart and soul of this best crack chicken penne experience. Itās what truly makes this dish sing. Hereās how to make it:
- Melt the Butter: In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken (if you cooked it on the stove top), melt the butter over medium heat. If you cooked your chicken in a slow cooker or Instant Pot, you can use a clean skillet.
- Add the Cream Cheese: Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until melted and smooth. If the cream cheese isn’t fully softened, it will clump. Donāt worry; just keep whisking until it melts!
- Stir in the Ranch Mix: Add the entire packet of ranch dressing mix and whisk again until well combined.
- Pour in the Milk (or Cream): Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. If using heavy cream, start with a little less and adjust to your desired consistency.
- Add the Chicken: Add the cooked chicken (whether it’s from the skillet, slow cooker, or Instant Pot) to the creamy sauce. Stir to coat the chicken thoroughly.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in about half of the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Heat: Add the cooked penne pasta to the creamy sauce. Stir to combine. Continue to heat the pasta with the sauce.
- Fold in the Bacon: Stir in most of the crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish.
- Garnish and Serve: Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon. Garnish with fresh chives or parsley, if desired. Serve immediately!
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of chicken broth to the sauce for a bit more moisture and savory notes.
Customizing Your Creation: Variations and Serving Suggestions for Your Crack Chicken Recipe
The beauty of this crack chicken pasta recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to experiment and make it your own. Here are some ideas:
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a kick of heat.
- Add Veggies: SautƩ some chopped onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms with the chicken for extra texture and flavor.
- Use Different Cheeses: Try using Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.
- Try a Different Protein: While this recipe is designed for chicken, you can use shredded pork or even ground beef. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Make it a Casserole: Pour the pasta and sauce into a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 350Ā°F (175Ā°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve with Sides: This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
- Make it Lighter: Use low-fat cream cheese, milk, and shredded chicken to reduce the fat content.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftover crack chicken penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave, on the stovetop, or in the oven. You may need to add a splash of milk to rehydrate the pasta.
The possibilities are endless! Donāt be afraid to get creative and tailor this recipe to your taste.
Conclusion: Savoring the Delicious Simplicity of Crack Chicken Penne!
And there you have it! A simple yet incredibly satisfying crack chicken penne recipe that will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. The combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, punctuated by the smoky bacon, creates a truly unforgettable dish. It’s the perfect weeknight meal for busy families, potlucks, or any time you crave a delicious and easy-to-make comfort food.
So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple steps, and get ready to enjoy a plate of pure deliciousness! We guarantee you’ll be hooked. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of your amazing crack chicken penne!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta besides penne?
Yes, you can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rotini, farfalle (bow-ties), or even spaghetti, adjusting cooking time as needed.
How spicy is crack chicken penne, and can I adjust the heat?
The level of spice varies depending on the amount of ranch seasoning and hot sauce used. You can control the heat by using less hot sauce or adding more or less of the ranch seasoning packets.
What if I don’t have cooked chicken on hand?
You can cook chicken breasts in the skillet before adding the other ingredients or use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. You may need to add a bit more liquid (milk or broth) when reheating to prevent it from drying out.
Is there a substitute for the cream cheese?
While cream cheese is a key ingredient, you could potentially substitute it with a similar amount of sour cream or a blend of cream cheese and Greek yogurt, though the texture and flavor will vary slightly.