Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Crack Chicken Penne

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: -6 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Crack Chicken Penne is the ultimate creamy pasta comfort food! Loaded with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a zesty ranch-infused sauce, this easy one-skillet dinner is rich, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a cozy meal everyone will devour.


Ingredients

Crack Chicken Penne is the ultimate creamy pasta comfort food! Loaded with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and a zesty ranch-infused sauce, this easy one-skillet dinner is rich, cheesy, and absolutely irresistible. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a cozy meal everyone will devour.


Instructions

  • 1 lb penne pasta

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie works great)

  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

  • ¾ cup bacon, cooked and chopped

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • ½ onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)


Notes

  • Cook the Penne: Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  • Sauté Onion & Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium. Add diced onion and garlic; sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.

  • Make the Sauce: Reduce heat. Add cream cheese and ranch seasoning; stir until melted and smooth.

  • Add Liquids: Slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until fully combined.

  • Add Chicken, Bacon & Cheese: Stir in shredded chicken, half the bacon, and cheddar cheese. Stir until melted. Season to taste.

  • Combine with Pasta: Toss in the cooked penne, mixing until fully coated in sauce.

  • Garnish & Serve: Top with remaining bacon and chopped parsley. Serve hot.