There’s something about pasta that instantly makes everything feel cozy, comforting, and homey. But when you add in the rich, creamy flavors of ranch, cheesy goodness, and crispy turkey bacon, you’ve got yourself a dish that takes comfort food to the next level. That’s exactly what this Crack Chicken Penne is all about. It’s creamy, cheesy, and so full of flavor that it will have your family (or guests) asking for seconds.

This dish is a favorite in our house for busy weeknights or those days when we just need something easy but delicious. With ingredients like shredded chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and ranch seasoning, it’s no surprise that it’s a hit. And trust me, the sauce. That velvety, creamy sauce made with ranch, cream cheese, and sharp cheddar? It’s absolutely irresistible.

In this article, I’ll walk you through how to make this amazing Crack Chicken Penne. I’ll share tips, tricks, and a few ideas for variations along the way. Let’s dive in and get started on a dinner that will not disappoint!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this creamy Crack Chicken Penne, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 lb penne pasta
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
3/4 cup turkey bacon, cooked and chopped
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by cooking your penne pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure it’s al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite to it. Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later. I love using penne for this dish because the sauce gets into those little ridges, making every bite even more flavorful.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat up 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for a few minutes until they soften and become translucent. This step really helps to build that flavor base for the sauce, and the aroma will fill your kitchen—so good!

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Once the onion and garlic are soft, reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet along with the ranch seasoning mix. Stir them together until everything becomes smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens—ranch seasoning adds such a delicious tang to the dish, and the cream cheese creates the perfect creamy texture for the sauce.

Step 4: Add the Liquids

Now, gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Continue stirring until the sauce is fully combined and begins to thicken slightly. You’ll notice the sauce becoming rich and velvety at this point, which is exactly what you want. If you’re wondering if you can swap out the heavy cream for something lighter, I’d recommend sticking with the heavy cream if you want that ultra-creamy texture. But if you’re looking for a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or whole milk.

Step 5: Add the Chicken, turkey Bacon, and Cheddar

Next, add the shredded cooked chicken, half of the crispy turkey bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the ingredients are well incorporated. At this stage, you’ll see that gorgeous cheese sauce coming together. The combination of cheese, ranch, and chicken is so flavorful.

Step 6: Combine with the Penne Pasta

Now, it’s time to add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in that creamy, cheesy sauce. The pasta will soak up all those amazing flavors, and you’ll have a dish that’s irresistible!

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle the remaining chopped turkey bacon on top of the pasta, and garnish with fresh parsley. The parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, while the turkey bacon gives it that extra crunch and savory kick. Serve it warm, and get ready to dig into the creamiest, most delicious pasta dish you’ve ever had.

Now that you know how to make this delicious Crack Chicken Penne, let’s dive into some tips and variations you can try to make this dish even more amazing. This recipe is so versatile, so feel free to get creative with ingredients and add your own spin to it. Whether you’re looking for ways to customize the flavor or switch up the texture, I’ve got you covered.

Helpful Tips for Success

Tip 1: Use Rotisserie Chicken for a Quick Meal

One of my favorite shortcuts for this recipe is using rotisserie chicken. Not only is it super convenient, but it also adds an extra layer of flavor. You can grab a pre-cooked chicken from your local grocery store, shred it up, and you’re good to go. This can save you time and still result in a flavorful dish that tastes like it was made from scratch.

Tip 2: Don’t Skip the turkey Bacon

If you’re a turkey bacon lover like me, don’t skimp on it. Turkey Bacon adds the perfect balance of saltiness and crunch to the creamy pasta. Plus, the crispy bits sprinkled on top of the dish elevate the texture and flavor. I recommend cooking the turkey bacon until it’s nice and crispy, and using half in the sauce and saving the other half for garnish.

Tip 3: Adjust the Sauce Consistency

If you prefer a thicker sauce, feel free to let it cook a little longer before adding the pasta. The sauce will thicken up as it simmers. On the other hand, if you want a creamier sauce, you can add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream to thin it out. It’s all about adjusting the sauce to your personal preference, so don’t be afraid to tweak it until it’s just right!

Tip 4: Add Vegetables for Extra Nutrition

This dish is already packed with flavor, but if you’d like to sneak in some veggies, feel free to throw in a handful of spinach, peas, or even some roasted bell peppers. These vegetables blend in nicely without overpowering the dish, and they add some color and texture to the final result. It’s an easy way to get more nutrients into the meal without sacrificing flavor.

Tip 5: Spice It Up

If you’re a fan of a little heat, there are plenty of ways to add a kick to this dish. Try stirring in some red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or even a few dashes of hot sauce. It’s a great way to balance the richness of the sauce with a bit of spice. And don’t worry—the creamy base will mellow out the heat, giving you a perfect balance of flavors.

Delicious Variations to Try

Variation 1: Crack Chicken Penne with Ranch and BBQ Sauce

For a fun twist on the classic, try swapping out the ranch seasoning for BBQ sauce. This variation brings in a smoky, tangy flavor that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce. You can add a little bit of your favorite BBQ sauce to the cream cheese and chicken broth mixture for a delicious, sweet and smoky taste. If you want to go all out, top it with some additional crispy onions for an extra crunch!

Variation 2: Crack Chicken Penne with Buffalo Sauce

If you love buffalo wings, you’ll want to try adding buffalo sauce to this dish. Instead of ranch seasoning, mix in some buffalo sauce to the cream cheese and chicken mixture. The heat from the buffalo sauce pairs wonderfully with the creamy base and adds a zesty twist to the dish. You could even sprinkle some crumbled blue cheese on top to complete the buffalo chicken flavor. This version is perfect if you’re in the mood for something with a little more kick!

Variation 3: Vegetarian Crack Penne (No Chicken)

For a vegetarian version of Crack Chicken Penne, you can easily swap the chicken for plant-based alternatives. Try using sautéed mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or even chickpeas as your protein. The creamy ranch sauce will still work beautifully, and you’ll get a hearty, satisfying meal without any meat. This is a great option for those who follow a vegetarian diet but still want to enjoy the flavors of this creamy pasta dish.

Variation 4: Add More Cheese for Extra Creaminess

Are you a cheese lover? If so, consider adding a few different kinds of cheese to the sauce for even more gooey goodness. Mozzarella, gouda, or even parmesan would all work really well in this dish. Mozzarella will give you that stringy, stretchy cheese pull, while gouda will add a smoky richness to the sauce. If you like a bit of tang, a sprinkle of parmesan on top before serving is an amazing finishing touch!

Variation 5: Use a Different Pasta Shape

Penne is a classic choice for this recipe, but you can definitely use other pasta shapes depending on what you have on hand or your personal preference. Rigatoni, ziti, or fusilli would all be great alternatives. Just make sure the pasta you choose has enough surface area to hold onto that creamy, cheesy sauce!

Now that you’ve got the recipe and some helpful tips, let’s go over a few frequently asked questions to ensure your Crack Chicken Penne turns out perfectly. I know that sometimes, when trying a new recipe, there are always a few things that leave us wondering. Hopefully, these answers will clear up any questions and make your cooking experience even smoother.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Yes, using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great option for this recipe! It saves time, and it adds a lot of flavor. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the sauce just like you would with homemade cooked chicken. It’s an easy shortcut that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or texture.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this Crack Chicken Penne is best served fresh, you can definitely make it ahead of time. Prepare the dish and let it cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

3. Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne for later?

Yes, this dish can be frozen! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, defrost the dish overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently on the stove. You may need to add a bit of extra liquid (chicken broth or cream) when reheating to restore its creamy texture.

4. Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! If you like your food with a little extra heat, there are a few easy ways to spice up this dish. You can add red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or even some hot sauce directly into the creamy sauce. I recommend starting with a little and tasting as you go to make sure it’s just the right level of spice for you.

5. What other cheese can I use besides sharp cheddar?

Sharp cheddar is a fantastic choice because of its bold flavor, but you can absolutely experiment with different cheeses. Some great alternatives include mozzarella for a milder, stretchier cheese, gouda for a smoky flavor, or even parmesan for a more nutty, tangy twist. A combination of different cheeses would also be delicious!

6. Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?

Definitely! While penne is a classic choice, you can use any pasta shape you like. Rigatoni, ziti, fusilli, or even farfalle (bowtie pasta) are all great options. Just make sure to cook the pasta according to the package instructions so that it’s al dente, and then toss it into the creamy sauce.

7. How can I make this dish lighter?

If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, there are a few easy swaps you can make. Use low-fat cream cheese and swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk. You can also skip the turkey bacon or use turkey bacon to cut down on fat. These substitutions will still result in a creamy, flavorful dish, but with fewer calories.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Crack Chicken Penne!

Crack Chicken Penne is one of those dishes that’s bound to become a favorite in your home. It’s easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and super comforting. Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy weeknight or serving it to guests at a cozy dinner party, this pasta dish is sure to impress. The creamy ranch sauce, tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and melty cheese come together in a way that’s just too good to resist.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients or flavors, and make this recipe your own. The possibilities are endless—whether you add veggies, switch up the cheese, or spice it up with some buffalo sauce, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.

I’d love to hear how it turns out for you! Try it out, leave a comment with your own variations, and let me know if you have any other questions. Crack Chicken Penne is truly a crowd-pleaser, and I know you’ll love it just as much as my family does. Happy cooking!

Crack Chicken Penne