Ultimate Guide to Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy, Cheesy & Addictive
This Crack Chicken Penne is the ultimate creamy, cheesy, and addictive pasta dish! Made with tender shredded chicken, crispy turkey bacon, rich cream cheese, and a flavorful ranch-infused sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or comforting family dinners. The combination of cheddar cheese, heavy cream, and garlic creates an irresistible, silky-smooth sauce that coats every bite of penne pasta.
Whether you make it as a one-pot meal, a low-carb version, or a spicy Buffalo twist, this dish is highly customizable and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a crisp Caesar salad, warm garlic bread, or roasted broccoli for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning mix
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked and crumbled turkey bacon
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
Instructions
Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the shredded chicken, cream cheese, chicken broth, heavy cream, ranch seasoning, and black pepper. Stir until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and mix until melted.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated in the sauce.
Top with crumbled turkey bacon and chopped green onions.
Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
Cooking Tips:
✅ Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
✅ Keep the heat low – High heat can make the sauce grainy or cause the cheese to separate.
✅ Cook pasta al dente – It will absorb the sauce and stay firm rather than becoming mushy.
✅ Loosen the sauce if needed – If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream.
Customizations & Substitutions:
🔹 Low-Carb Option – Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
🔹 Spicy Version – Add Buffalo sauce or red pepper flakes for a kick.
🔹 Vegetarian Alternative – Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or spinach.
🔹 Extra Cheesy – Use a blend of cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan for deeper flavor.
Storage & Reheating:
🧊 Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days in an airtight container.
❄️ Freeze for up to 2 months (though the sauce may change texture slightly).
🔥 Reheat with extra cream or broth to maintain the creamy consistency.
This Crack Chicken Penne is a must-try comfort food that’s easy to make and impossible to resist! 🍽️🔥