Are you looking for a dish that combines comfort, ease, and mouth-watering flavors? Look no further than Crack Chicken Penne! This delightful pasta dish blends tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich creamy sauce, delivering a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or even entertaining guests. Best of all, it’s versatile enough to suit various palates, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Why Make This Recipe
Crack Chicken Penne is not just another pasta dish; it’s a family favorite that hits all the right notes. The combination of tender chicken and smoky bacon in a creamy, flavorful sauce creates an incredibly satisfying meal. Plus, it takes minimal time and effort to prepare—meaning less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying with your loved ones.
A Delectable, Comforting Dish
What sets Crack Chicken Penne apart are the incredible flavors and textures that come together in each bite. The tender penne pasta serves as the perfect foundation, while the creamy ranch-inspired sauce envelops the chicken and bacon, offering layers of flavor. A sprinkle of cheddar cheese adds that extra touch of comfort and richness that makes this dish truly unforgettable. It’s a warm hug in a bowl!
Perfect for Gatherings
Whether it’s a family meal or a gathering with friends, Crack Chicken Penne is the ideal choice. It can be easily multiplied to serve a crowd, and the flavorful nature of the dish makes it appealing to everyone. You can whip up a big batch, and all your guests will appreciate the effort while enjoying their time together.
Quick and Easy
One of the main attractions of this recipe is its simplicity. With minimal prep time and easily accessible ingredients, you can have this delicious meal on the table in about 30 minutes. No complicated techniques or hard-to-find items—just good, honest cooking that fits into your busy lifestyle.
How to Make Crack Chicken Penne
Ready to dive into making this delectable dish? Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a delicious result:
Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
Start by cooking 10 oz of penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent the pasta from sticking together. This process takes about 10 minutes.
Mini Tip: For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to the boiling water before adding the pasta.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large pot, chop and cook 8 slices of bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon and place it on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess grease.
Mini Tip: Save some of the bacon grease in the pot for added flavor in the next steps.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Remove all but 1 tablespoon of bacon grease from the pot. Dice 1 ½ lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes, add them to the pot, and season with salt and pepper. Sauté until the chicken is browned on all sides, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
Mini Tip: For a more flavorful chicken, let it marinate in your desired seasonings for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Step 4: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add ½ minced yellow onion to the pot and sauté until the chicken is fully cooked and the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then add 3 minced cloves of garlic and cook for another minute.
Mini Tip: For a more robust flavor, add spices like paprika or Italian seasoning at this stage.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of sour cream, 4 oz of cream cheese, 1 packet of dry ranch dressing mix, 1 tsp of salt, 1 tsp of black pepper, and 2 tsp of dried parsley. Stir well to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
Mini Tip: Use low-sodium chicken broth for a healthier option and to control the saltiness of the dish.
Step 6: Add Pasta and Cheese
Stir in the shredded cheese (2 cups of cheddar) and the cooked penne pasta. Mix everything until well incorporated and let it simmer for about five more minutes.
Mini Tip: For a twist, try mixing in different cheese varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack for added flavor!
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors of your Crack Chicken Penne!
Ingredients
- 10 oz penne pasta
- 8 slices bacon (chopped)
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- ½ yellow onion (minced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 packet dry ranch dressing mix
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped green onions (for garnish)
Directions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
- In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- Remove most of the bacon grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add chicken cubes seasoned with salt and pepper, and sauté until browned.
- Add minced onion and sauté until soft. Then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, sour cream, cream cheese, ranch dressing mix, salt, pepper, parsley, and cooked bacon. Stir and bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked pasta. Mix until incorporated and let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve.
How to Serve Crack Chicken Penne
Crack Chicken Penne is perfect as a standalone meal, but you can also elevate your dining experience with a few simple touches. Consider serving it with:
- A side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy richness.
- Warm, crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.
- A glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea to complement the flavors.
For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle extra cheese and fresh herbs on top just before serving.
How to Store Crack Chicken Penne
Leftovers are a great perk of making Crack Chicken Penne! Store this delicious dish in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days.
For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help revive the creamy sauce.
Tips to Make Crack Chicken Penne
- Personalize the Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust the ranch seasoning or add your favorite spices to customize flavors.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to switch up the cheese—try gouda or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.
- Use Leftover Chicken: This is a great way to repurpose leftover rotisserie chicken; just add it towards the end to warm through.
- Make it Vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas or tofu and use vegetable broth for a meatless version.
Variations
Here are a few variations you can explore:
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure your ranch dressing mix is gluten-free.
- Add Veggies: Throw in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce for those who enjoy a little heat.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and offers a lighter option.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Switch the penne pasta for a gluten-free variety and ensure that the broth and ranch dressing mix don’t contain gluten.
Can I freeze this dish for later?
Yes! You can freeze Crack Chicken Penne for up to three months. Just be sure to use an airtight container and reheat properly.
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Penne is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings loved ones together around the table. With its creamy texture, savory flavors, and the delightful crunch of bacon, it’s no wonder this dish is so beloved. Easy to prepare and perfect for a variety of occasions, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and give this delicious recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed! Enjoy the journey of flavors and the joy of sharing it with those you love!