Crack Chicken Penne Families Love

Name: Crack Chicken Penne Families Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; Salt, for boiling; 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded; 1 package (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup crispy bacon, chopped; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen

This Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, flavorful dish that brings families together around the dinner table. The irresistible combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente penne pasta makes it a family favorite.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-10T17:02:20.421Z

This Crack Chicken Penne is not just a meal; it's a comforting experience that brings joy to the family table. The creamy sauce is infused with ranch seasoning and cooked chicken, making every bite a delight.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that coats every piece of pasta
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
A family-friendly dish that even picky eaters will enjoy

      

A Comforting Family Meal

Crack Chicken Penne is the epitome of comfort food that brings warmth and joy to family dinners. With its rich, creamy texture and savory flavors, this dish is designed to please even the pickiest of eaters. The harmonious blend of shredded chicken and cheesy goodness creates a filling meal that satisfies both hunger and craving for indulgence.

The versatility of this dish allows for easy customization. You can easily add your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, to boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor. This adaptability makes Crack Chicken Penne not just a meal, but a canvas for your culinary creativity.

Perfect for Busy Nights

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a delicious meal can be a challenge. Crack Chicken Penne rises to the occasion as a quick and easy recipe that takes just a little over 30 minutes from start to finish. With minimal prep time and simple cooking steps, it's an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want to serve something special without a lot of fuss.

This recipe also allows you to leverage leftover cooked chicken, making it even more efficient. By incorporating pre-cooked proteins, you can cut down on cooking time significantly, ensuring that you and your loved ones can enjoy a hearty meal without the stress of lengthy preparation.

Why It’s a Hit with Kids

Kids often have their own unique preferences when it comes to food, which is why Crack Chicken Penne is a standout dish in many households. The creamy sauce and cheesy goodness are flavors that resonate with children, making this meal a surefire hit. Plus, the penne pasta is easy to eat, which can alleviate mealtime struggles.

Additionally, the fun of garnishing with crispy bacon and green onions adds an element of excitement to the dish. Encouraging your little ones to add their toppings can make them feel involved in the meal, fostering a love for cooking and a willingness to try new things.

Ingredients

For the Penne

8 ounces penne pasta
Salt, for boiling

For the Crack Chicken Sauce

1 pound cooked chicken, shredded
1 package (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup crispy bacon, chopped
1/4 cup green onions, sliced

Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and set aside.

Instructions

Cook the Penne

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and chicken broth. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne to the skillet and stir until the pasta is fully coated with the sauce. Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped bacon.

Serve

Garnish with sliced green onions and serve warm. Enjoy your meal with family!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover Crack Chicken Penne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the creamy texture, it's best to reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to revive the sauce. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and avoid scorching.

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, consider assembling the ingredients and storing them separately. You can combine the cooked penne with the sauce just before serving, ensuring that everything stays fresh and delicious without compromising quality.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing Crack Chicken Penne with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. These light sides can balance the richness of the dish while adding a nutritious component to your meal. A simple vinaigrette or lemon dressing can enhance the freshness of the salad and complement the flavors in the pasta.

For a heartier meal, serve with garlic bread or a warm, crusty baguette. These options are perfect for scooping up the creamy sauce and make for a comforting addition to your dinner table.

Variations to Try

While the traditional Crack Chicken Penne is delicious as-is, you can experiment with different ingredients to create your own variations. For a spicy kick, consider adding jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. This twist can give the dish a new level of flavor that spice lovers will enjoy.

You might also try swapping out the cheddar cheese for a different variety, such as pepper jack for a bit of heat or mozzarella for a milder taste. Each cheese brings its unique characteristics, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences while keeping it exciting for repeat meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding.

→ What if I don't have ranch seasoning?

You can substitute ranch seasoning with a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. Just add the pasta when you're ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure that the ranch seasoning is gluten-free.