Crack Chicken Penne

This Crack Chicken Penne recipe is a delightful twist on comfort food, perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and pasta in one pot, making it not only delicious but also easy to prepare. You’ll love the rich flavor that comes from the ranch seasoning and the melted cheeses, creating a dish that’s satisfying and memorable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: Simplifies cooking and cleanup, allowing you to enjoy more time with family.
• Creamy and Cheesy: The combination of cream cheese and cheddar creates a rich, mouthwatering sauce.
• Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking, you can serve a hearty meal in under an hour.
• Versatile Dish: Easily customize by adding vegetables like broccoli or swapping out the pasta for your favorite type.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, this dish is sure to impress at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Crack Chicken Penne, having the right tools makes all the difference. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: A heavy pot that retains heat well, it ensures even cooking for your pasta and chicken.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your cookware, helping to combine ingredients smoothly.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the best flavor in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

• 4 slices bacon (thick cut)
• 1 pound chicken breast (boneless and skinless, cut into small bite size pieces)
• 1 ounce ranch seasoning (1 packet or 2 tbsp)
• 8 ounces penne (uncooked, or pasta of your choice)
• 3½ cups chicken broth (low sodium or no salt added)
• 4 ounces cream cheese (I used Philadelphia)
• 2 cups cheddar cheese (shredded)
• 1 tablespoon parsley (chopped)

How to Make Crack Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Cook the bacon in a large Dutch oven until crispy. Remove it from the pot and drain some of the fat, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Chop the bacon into bits.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In the same pot, add the chicken pieces. Cook over medium-high heat for about 3 minutes until they start to brown; they will still be slightly pink inside. Add the ranch seasoning mix to coat each piece evenly.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

Add the uncooked penne pasta along with 3½ cups of chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and cook for about 15 to 20 minutes until pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally; add more broth if needed.

Step 4: Make the Sauce and Add Bacon and Cheese

Add cream cheese to the pot and stir until it melts into a creamy sauce. Mix in chopped bacon bits and about 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese until well combined.

Step 5: Finish the Dish

Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese over the top. Cover with a lid for about 30 seconds off heat until melted. For extra browning, broil in an oven for about 5 minutes until bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley before serving warm!

Enjoy this comforting Crack Chicken Penne as a delightful main dish that brings smiles at every meal!

How to Serve Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Pair with Garlic Bread

• Enjoy warm, buttery garlic bread alongside your Crack Chicken Penne for a delicious contrast of textures.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top for a fresh burst of flavor and color.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A crisp side salad featuring mixed greens and a light vinaigrette complements the creamy richness of the pasta.

Add Extra Cheddar

• For cheese lovers, consider adding an extra sprinkle of shredded cheddar on top just before serving for an indulgent touch.

Drizzle with Olive Oil

• A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil can enhance the flavors and add a nice sheen to the dish.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted vegetables like broccoli or bell peppers can be served on the side for added nutrition and flavor contrast.

How to Perfect Crack Chicken Penne

To achieve the best results with your Crack Chicken Penne, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your dish turns out creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious!

• Use fresh chicken: Fresh chicken breast will provide better texture and flavor than frozen. If using frozen, ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking.
• Cook pasta al dente: Aim for al dente pasta so it holds its shape well when mixed with the sauce. It will absorb some liquid while resting.
• Stir frequently: Stirring occasionally while cooking helps prevent sticking and ensures that every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy sauce.
• Experiment with seasonings: Feel free to add additional spices or herbs to customize the flavor profile according to your taste preferences.
• Monitor cheese melting: Make sure to stir in the cheese until fully melted for that creamy consistency. Avoid high heat which may cause clumping.
• Adjust broth as needed: If you find the mixture too thick during cooking, add more broth gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Best Side Dishes for Crack Chicken Penne

Pairing side dishes with Crack Chicken Penne can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli
   Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, garlic, and seasoning; roast until tender for a healthy side.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese adds crunch and contrasting flavors.

3. Steamed Green Beans
   Lightly steamed green beans drizzled with lemon juice offer brightness and balance against the creamy pasta.

4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze bring fresh flavors that complement the richness of the penne.

5. Grilled Asparagus
   Grilled asparagus spears seasoned with sea salt make an elegant side dish full of flavor.

6. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brushed with butter enhances the meal’s comfort food vibe while providing sweetness.

7. Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts
   Roast Brussels sprouts then drizzle them with balsamic glaze for a tangy addition that pairs well with chicken dishes.

8. Crispy Potato Wedges
   Oven-baked potato wedges seasoned to perfection provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with creamy pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Crack Chicken Penne can be a delightful experience, but avoiding common pitfalls can make it even better.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you coat the chicken well with ranch seasoning.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta for too long will result in mushy noodles. Aim for al dente by checking the pasta a minute or two before the suggested cooking time.
• Not stirring enough: Failing to stir occasionally may cause the pasta to stick to the bottom of the pot. Make sure to stir every few minutes for even cooking.
• Using low-quality cheese: Cheap cheese may not melt well and could affect the dish’s creaminess. Choose good quality cheddar cheese for the best results.
• Ignoring storage instructions: Improper storage can lead to spoilage. Follow proper cooling and storing techniques to keep your Crack Chicken Penne fresh.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Crack Chicken Penne

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with dates to track freshness.

Reheating Crack Chicken Penne

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowl, covered, in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Crack Chicken Penne that might help you out.

What is Crack Chicken Penne?

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish made with chicken, cheese, and ranch seasoning, all cooked together in one pot.

Can I customize my Crack Chicken Penne?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition or swap out chicken for turkey or beef.

How do I make Crack Chicken Penne without bacon?

You can simply omit the bacon or substitute it with turkey bacon for a similar flavor without using pork products.

What should I serve with Crack Chicken Penne?

A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with this creamy dish, enhancing its flavor and providing balance.

How do I store leftovers of Crack Chicken Penne?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

This Crack Chicken Penne recipe is not only creamy and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins or veggies based on your preferences. Give this dish a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!