This addictively delicious Crack Chicken Penne combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy ranch-seasoned sauce that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Named for its impossibly addictive flavor profile, this comfort food classic is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any time you need a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of ranch seasoning, bacon, and cream cheese creates an irresistible flavor base, while the penne pasta perfectly captures the creamy sauce in its ridges. The dish strikes an ideal balance between creamy and savory, with plenty of protein from the chicken and a delightful crunch from the bacon.

Essential Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 1 pound penne pasta
• Salt for pasta water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Chicken:

• 2 pounds chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 16 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 packets ranch seasoning mix
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Additional Components:

• 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 3 green onions, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Required Equipment

• Large pasta pot
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Mixing bowls
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Components

1. Cook the bacon:

• Fry until crispy
• Drain on paper towels
• Crumble and set aside
• Reserve 2 tablespoons bacon fat

1. Cook the pasta:

• Bring large pot of salted water to boil
• Cook penne until al dente
• Reserve 1 cup pasta water
• Drain and toss with olive oil

1. Prepare the chicken:

• Season diced chicken with spices
• Heat oil in large skillet
• Cook until golden and done
• Remove and set aside

Making the Sauce

1. In the same skillet:

• Add reserved bacon fat
• Sauté minced garlic
• Add softened cream cheese
• Whisk in chicken broth

1. Create the cream sauce:

• Add heavy cream
• Stir in ranch seasoning
• Add shredded cheeses
• Whisk until smooth

1. Combine components:

• Add cooked chicken
• Stir in half the bacon
• Add pasta and toss
• Add pasta water if needed

Final Assembly

1. Mix thoroughly:

• Ensure pasta is well coated
• Check seasoning
• Add more liquid if needed

1. Garnish:

• Top with remaining bacon
• Sprinkle with green onions
• Add fresh parsley
• Dust with Parmesan

Pro Tips for Success

1. Pasta Perfect:

• Salt pasta water generously
• Cook just until al dente
• Save pasta water
• Don’t rinse after cooking

1. Chicken Success:

• Cut pieces uniformly
• Don’t overcrowd pan
• Season well
• Don’t overcook

1. Sauce Secrets:

• Use room temperature cream cheese
• Add liquid gradually
• Keep heat moderate
• Stir constantly

Make-Ahead and Storage Options

Make-Ahead Tips:

• Cook bacon in advance
• Prep chicken day before
• Make sauce separately
• Cook pasta just before serving

Storage Guidelines:

• Refrigerate up to 4 days
• Reheat gently with splash of milk
• Store garnishes separately
• Not recommended for freezing

Variations and Adaptations

Lighter Version:

• Use turkey bacon
• Substitute light cream cheese
• Use half-and-half instead of cream
• Add more vegetables

Spicy Version:

• Add red pepper flakes
• Use pepper jack cheese
• Add diced jalapeños
• Sprinkle with cayenne

Vegetable Add-ins:

• Sautéed mushrooms
• Spinach
• Roasted cherry tomatoes
• Frozen peas

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes:

• Garden salad
• Garlic bread
• Roasted vegetables
• Steamed broccoli

Garnish Options:

• Extra bacon bits
• Red pepper flakes
• Fresh herbs
• Extra cheese

Troubleshooting Tips

Sauce Too Thick:

• Add reserved pasta water
• Add warm milk
• Lower heat
• Stir constantly

Sauce Too Thin:

• Simmer longer
• Add more cheese
• Reduce liquid
• Let stand 5 minutes

Reheating Tips:

• Add splash of milk
• Heat slowly
• Stir frequently
• Don’t overheat

This Crack Chicken Penne recipe creates a comforting, creamy, and absolutely irresistible meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce makes it a dish that everyone will love and request again and again.