Crack Chicken Penne Creamy Comfort Food Recipe

October 24, 2025August 4, 2025 by Ava

If you crave creamy comfort food, you’ll love my Crack Chicken Penne recipe. This dish blends tender chicken, pasta, and a rich sauce that’s hard to resist. In this post, I’ll guide you through every step, from choosing the best ingredients to cooking techniques that ensure a perfect meal. Get ready to bring a warm, satisfying dish to your table that everyone will adore. Let’s dive into this tasty adventure together!

Why I Love This Recipe

Deliciously Creamy: This dish combines the richness of cream cheese with savory ranch flavors, creating a mouthwatering sauce that perfectly coats the pasta.
Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal without a lot of fuss.
Versatile Ingredients: Using chicken thighs and crispy bacon adds depth of flavor, while you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables.
Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please the whole family, combining familiar flavors that kids love with a hearty pasta base.

Ingredients

List of Essential Ingredients

To make Crack Chicken Penne, you need these key items:

– 12 oz penne pasta

– 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless

– 1 packet ranch dressing mix

– 1 cup cream cheese, softened

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 cup cooked crispy bacon bits (or turkey bacon)

– 1 cup green onions, sliced

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

These ingredients work together to create a tasty meal full of flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap some ingredients if needed:

– Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option.

– Greek yogurt can replace cream cheese for a lighter sauce.

– If you don’t have ranch mix, you can use Italian dressing mix.

– Any pasta shape works, though penne holds the sauce well.

– You can also try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.

These swaps can give you a new twist on the recipe while keeping it delicious.

Importance of Quality Ingredients

Using fresh and high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh chicken enhances the taste and texture. Quality cheese melts better, creating a creamy sauce. Fresh herbs, like green onions, add brightness and flavor. When you choose good ingredients, you elevate your dish. It not only tastes better but also feels good to eat something made with care.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Penne Pasta

First, grab a large pot. Fill it with water and add salt. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add 12 oz of penne pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. You want it to be al dente, or firm to the bite. This should take about 10-12 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside. Make sure to save some pasta water for later, if needed.

Preparing and Shredding the Chicken

Next, let’s prepare the chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil heats, season 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be fully cooked with no pink inside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it cool for a bit. When it’s cool enough, shred it using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces.

Making the Creamy Sauce

Now, let’s create the creamy sauce. In the same skillet, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in 1 cup of softened cream cheese and the ranch dressing mix. Mix well until the sauce is smooth. Once the sauce is creamy, add the shredded chicken back to the skillet. Then, fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and blends nicely. Finally, add the cooked penne to the sauce and stir to coat it evenly. Mix in 1 cup of crispy bacon bits and half of the sliced green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Tips & Tricks

Best Cooking Techniques for Perfect Chicken

To get juicy chicken, use boneless, skinless thighs. They stay moist and cook well. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. Check if the chicken is no longer pink inside. Remove it and let it rest before shredding.

How to Achieve the Creamiest Sauce

For a creamy sauce, use softened cream cheese. It blends smoothly into the chicken broth. Start by simmering the broth in your skillet. Add the cream cheese and ranch dressing mix. Stir until you get a smooth consistency. This is key to a rich, creamy texture. Don’t forget to mix in the cheddar cheese until it melts fully.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Crack Chicken Penne is great on its own but pairs well with sides. Serve it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. You can also add garlic bread for a crunchy touch. Top your dish with more green onions and cheese for extra flavor. This makes each bite even better! Enjoy your comforting meal!

Pro Tips

Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook the penne until al dente for the best texture; it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker preparation, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding.
Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix cheeses; substituting mozzarella or pepper jack can add a different flavor profile to your dish.
Add Vegetables: For a nutritious boost, add spinach or bell peppers to the sauce. They will blend well and add color to your dish.

Variations

Vegetarian Alternatives

If you want a vegetarian version, I have some great ideas. You can swap chicken for hearty mushrooms or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the sauce. Cream cheese can be replaced with a plant-based cream cheese. This will keep the creamy texture while being meat-free.

Different Protein Options

You can also change the protein in this dish. Instead of chicken thighs, try turkey or even tofu. Shredded rotisserie chicken works well too. If you like seafood, shrimp would be a delicious choice. Just cook shrimp until pink and add it to the sauce.

Flavor Enhancements and Additions

Adding flavor is easy! Toss in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy taste. Spinach or kale can boost the dish’s nutrition. You could also mix in some garlic or onion powder for extra flavor. A hint of hot sauce can add a spicy kick. Don’t forget fresh herbs like parsley or basil for freshness!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Crack Chicken Penne fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy it again without losing flavor.

Freezing Instructions

You can freeze Crack Chicken Penne for later. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to press out any air before sealing. It will last for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Reheating Tips for Best Results

For the best taste, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it creamy. Stir often until it’s warm. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps it moist and delicious.

FAQs

How do I make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?

You can make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time. First, cook the penne pasta and chicken as directed. After mixing everything, store it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat, reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy.

Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker for this recipe. First, add chicken thighs, ranch mix, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. After that, shred the chicken and mix in cream cheese and cheddar cheese. Lastly, combine it with the cooked penne.

Is it possible to make Crack Chicken Penne lighter?

You can lighten this dish in a few ways. Use whole wheat penne for added fiber. Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream cheese. You can also cut back on cheese or bacon. Use grilled chicken instead of fried for a healthier option.

In this post, I covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. Quality ingredients make a big difference in taste. Cooking techniques help ensure your chicken is perfect, and creamy sauce adds richness. I shared ways to vary the dish, including vegetarian choices. Proper storage keeps leftovers fresh.

Enjoy creating your own delicious Crack Chicken Penne. With practice and the right techniques, you’ll impress everyone at the tabl

$To make Crack Chicken Penne, you need these key items: - 12 oz penne pasta - 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless - 1 packet ranch dressing mix - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 cup cooked crispy bacon bits (or turkey bacon) - 1 cup green onions, sliced - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 tablespoon olive oil These ingredients work together to create a tasty meal full of flavor. You can swap some ingredients if needed: - Use chicken breast instead of thighs for a leaner option. - Greek yogurt can replace cream cheese for a lighter sauce. - If you don’t have ranch mix, you can use Italian dressing mix. - Any pasta shape works, though penne holds the sauce well. - You can also try different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack. These swaps can give you a new twist on the recipe while keeping it delicious. Using fresh and high-quality ingredients makes a big difference. Fresh chicken enhances the taste and texture. Quality cheese melts better, creating a creamy sauce. Fresh herbs, like green onions, add brightness and flavor. When you choose good ingredients, you elevate your dish. It not only tastes better but also feels good to eat something made with care. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, grab a large pot. Fill it with water and add salt. Bring the water to a boil. Once boiling, add 12 oz of penne pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package directions. You want it to be al dente, or firm to the bite. This should take about 10-12 minutes. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside. Make sure to save some pasta water for later, if needed. Next, let’s prepare the chicken. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While the oil heats, season 1 lb of boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to be fully cooked with no pink inside. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it cool for a bit. When it's cool enough, shred it using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Now, let’s create the creamy sauce. In the same skillet, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in 1 cup of softened cream cheese and the ranch dressing mix. Mix well until the sauce is smooth. Once the sauce is creamy, add the shredded chicken back to the skillet. Then, fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and blends nicely. Finally, add the cooked penne to the sauce and stir to coat it evenly. Mix in 1 cup of crispy bacon bits and half of the sliced green onions. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. To get juicy chicken, use boneless, skinless thighs. They stay moist and cook well. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. Check if the chicken is no longer pink inside. Remove it and let it rest before shredding. For a creamy sauce, use softened cream cheese. It blends smoothly into the chicken broth. Start by simmering the broth in your skillet. Add the cream cheese and ranch dressing mix. Stir until you get a smooth consistency. This is key to a rich, creamy texture. Don't forget to mix in the cheddar cheese until it melts fully. Crack Chicken Penne is great on its own but pairs well with sides. Serve it with a fresh salad or steamed veggies. You can also add garlic bread for a crunchy touch. Top your dish with more green onions and cheese for extra flavor. This makes each bite even better! Enjoy your comforting meal! Pro Tips Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook the penne until al dente for the best texture; it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quicker preparation, consider using store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking and shredding. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix cheeses; substituting mozzarella or pepper jack can add a different flavor profile to your dish. Add Vegetables: For a nutritious boost, add spinach or bell peppers to the sauce. They will blend well and add color to your dish. {{image_2}} If you want a vegetarian version, I have some great ideas. You can swap chicken for hearty mushrooms or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the sauce. Cream cheese can be replaced with a plant-based cream cheese. This will keep the creamy texture while being meat-free. You can also change the protein in this dish. Instead of chicken thighs, try turkey or even tofu. Shredded rotisserie chicken works well too. If you like seafood, shrimp would be a delicious choice. Just cook shrimp until pink and add it to the sauce. Adding flavor is easy! Toss in sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy taste. Spinach or kale can boost the dish's nutrition. You could also mix in some garlic or onion powder for extra flavor. A hint of hot sauce can add a spicy kick. Don't forget fresh herbs like parsley or basil for freshness! To keep your Crack Chicken Penne fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This way, you can enjoy it again without losing flavor. You can freeze Crack Chicken Penne for later. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to press out any air before sealing. It will last for about three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. For the best taste, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it creamy. Stir often until it’s warm. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This keeps it moist and delicious. You can make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time. First, cook the penne pasta and chicken as directed. After mixing everything, store it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you are ready to eat, reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy. Yes, you can use a slow cooker for this recipe. First, add chicken thighs, ranch mix, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. After that, shred the chicken and mix in cream cheese and cheddar cheese. Lastly, combine it with the cooked penne. You can lighten this dish in a few ways. Use whole wheat penne for added fiber. Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream cheese. You can also cut back on cheese or bacon. Use grilled chicken instead of fried for a healthier option. In this post, I covered key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. Quality ingredients make a big difference in taste. Cooking techniques help ensure your chicken is perfect, and creamy sauce adds richness. I shared ways to vary the dish, including vegetarian choices. Proper storage keeps leftovers fresh. Enjoy creating your own delicious Crack Chicken Penne. With practice and the right techniques, you’ll impress everyone at the table!$