As the sun sets and the day’s hustle begins to quiet down, I find solace in the kitchen, where comforting aromas fill the air. There’s something truly special about a one-pot meal that brings together tender chicken and smoky bacon in a creamy embrace, all atop perfectly cooked penne pasta. Enter my Creamy Crack Chicken Penne—a dish that feels decadent yet comes together effortlessly.
Picture this: the rich, creamy sauce glistens as it envelops each bite, making this ultimate comfort food perfect for both busy weeknights and cozy family gatherings. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or someone looking to break free from the fast-food routine, this customizable recipe offers a simple yet indulgent escape. Plus, with a gluten-free option available, everyone can savor the joy of this hearty, flavorful dish. Ready to transform your pantry staples into a show-stopping dinner? Let’s dive in!
Why is Crack Chicken Penne a weeknight winner?
Ease of Preparation: This one-pot goodness means minimal cleanup, so you can enjoy your meal without the hassle.
Rich and Creamy: The luscious cream cheese sauce pairs beautifully with smoky bacon and tender chicken, creating a flavor sensation that satisfies every craving.
Customizable Delight: Whether you prefer different pasta shapes or want to spice it up with red pepper flakes, this recipe allows for endless creativity!
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Perfect for family gatherings or impressing friends, it’s a dish that everyone will love and ask for seconds!
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, this will quickly become your go-to for busy evenings. It’s time to welcome flavorsome home-cooked meals back into your life—try this irresistible recipe today!
Crack Chicken Penne Ingredients
For the Pasta
• Penne Pasta – Provides the base structure; you can substitute with any short pasta like rotini or rigatoni.
For the Chicken
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 lb) – Adds protein and sustains the meal; rotisserie or leftover chicken can offer convenience.
For the Bacon
• Thick-Cut Bacon (6 slices) – Contributes smoky flavor and crunch; use turkey bacon for a lighter version if desired.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon) – Used for sautéing the chicken and enhancing flavor.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced) – Adds aromatic depth to the dish.
• Onion Powder (1 teaspoon) – Enhances savory notes.
• Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon) – Provides a hint of smokiness.
• Dried Parsley (1 teaspoon) – Offers freshness; feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or chives instead.
• Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon), Salt (1/2 teaspoon) – Basic seasoning components; adjust to taste.
• Chicken Broth (2 cups) – Acts as the cooking liquid and enhances flavor; vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup) – Creates a rich and creamy sauce; for a lighter version, use whole milk, but note that the sauce will be thinner.
• Cream Cheese (8 oz, cubed) – Key ingredient for creaminess; allow to soften slightly for easier mixing.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup) – Enhances creaminess and flavor; full-fat options add richness, or choose dairy-free cheese for a vegan variant.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup) – Adds sharpness to the sauce.
For Garnish
• Fresh Parsley – Provides color and freshness upon serving.
Dive into making this Crack Chicken Penne and enjoy the comforting embrace of flavors!
How to Make Crack Chicken Penne
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Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon, leaving about 1 tablespoon of grease in the skillet for flavor.
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Sear the Chicken: Add olive oil to the skillet, then season and sear the diced chicken until golden brown, approximately 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside for later.
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Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. This will add aromatic depth to your sauce.
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Add Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet. This step builds layers of flavor in your creamy sauce.
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Incorporate Pasta: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta; bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 12–14 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and fully cooked.
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Melt the Cream Cheese: Mix in the cubed cream cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Then, add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is perfectly creamy.
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Combine: Return the chicken and bacon to the skillet, stirring gently to combine, and simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
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Serve Warm: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot for a comforting meal that everyone will appreciate.
Optional: Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Crack Chicken Penne Variations
Customizing your dish can transform an already delicious meal into something extraordinary, bursting with flavors you adore.
- Gluten-Free: Swap regular penne with gluten-free pasta for a delightful version everyone can enjoy.
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives to create a rich sauce without the dairy.
- Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an exciting heat that elevates each bite.
- Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach or diced bell peppers for added nutrition and a pop of color in your dish.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in other cheeses, like gouda or mozzarella, for a unique flavor profile that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Smoky Flavor: Substitute regular bacon with smoked sausage for a robust, savory twist that adds depth to the sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the dish’s aroma and freshness.
- Pasta Shape Variety: Try using fusilli or farfalle instead of penne; their unique shapes hold onto the sauce beautifully.
Feel free to play around with these variations and make this Crack Chicken Penne a personalized masterpiece!
Expert Tips for Crack Chicken Penne
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Prep Ahead: Gather and measure all your ingredients before starting. This will streamline the cooking process and help avoid last-minute surprises.
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Cream Cheese Care: Remember to soften cream cheese before adding it to the sauce. This ensures a smooth melting process and prevents clumps.
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Pasta Perfection: Stir the penne occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the sauce thickens too much, a splash of chicken broth can help!
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Bacon Crunch: For extra crispy bacon, cook it in a separate pan on medium-high heat if desired, then crumble and add at the end for that ultimate crunch.
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Variations Allowed: Feel free to customize your mix-ins! Consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for a healthy twist on your Crack Chicken Penne.
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Storage Tips: This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream to restore its creamy texture.
What to Serve with Crack Chicken Penne?
Create a complete meal experience with these delightful pairings that perfectly complement your creamy pasta dish.
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Garlic Bread: The warm, crunchy texture of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, making every bite even more indulgent.
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Fresh Green Salad: A bright salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the richness of the Crack Chicken Penne.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring earthy flavors and a satisfying crunch, enhancing the overall meal with their vibrant colors and textures.
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Steamed Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with lemon pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta, offering a burst of freshness and a touch of elegance to your dinner.
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Cheesy Garlic Knots: Soft, doughy knots with a hint of garlic and cheese make for a delightful side that guests will rave about, perfectly complementing the main dish.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A cool, refreshing beverage like lemonade or iced tea enhances the warmth of your meal, cutting through the richness and cleansing the palate.
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Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a light and airy chocolate mousse—a luxurious dessert to round out the meal and keep everyone smiling.
Each of these pairings will elevate your dinner experience and make your Crack Chicken Penne a star on the table!
How to Store and Freeze Crack Chicken Penne
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This will keep your Crack Chicken Penne fresh and flavorful for your next satisfying meal.
Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to label them with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight. Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess as needed.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety. Enjoy your creamy pasta within that timeframe!
Make Ahead Options
Crack Chicken Penne is a fantastic recipe for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can cook the chicken and bacon up to 24 hours in advance, storing them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their flavors and textures. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sauce by combining the broth, cream, garlic, and seasonings, storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to eat, simply cook the penne pasta, reheat the sauce, and mix in the pre-cooked chicken and bacon. This will allow you to enjoy delicious, homemade Crack Chicken Penne with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
Crack Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs
How do I know if my chicken is fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken, look for breasts that are pink and firm with no dark spots or an off-putting odor. Always go for organic or free-range options when possible for the best flavor!
How should I store leftover Crack Chicken Penne?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure it cools down to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation which could make the dish soggy.
Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Remember to label it with the date for easy tracking!
What if my sauce becomes too thick when reheating?
Very! A thick sauce can be rescued by gently warming it on low heat and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream until the desired consistency is reached. Stir well to mix!
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can easily swap regular penne for gluten-free pasta. Just keep an eye on cooking times as gluten-free pasta can cook differently, typically slightly faster.
Can I prepare Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Yes, you can! If you want to prep ahead, cook the chicken and bacon, and store them separately in the fridge. Cook the sauce and pasta closer to meal time for the best texture, or combine everything and store, then simply reheat when you’re ready to serve!
Creamy Crack Chicken Penne: The Ultimate Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon, leaving about 1 tablespoon of grease in the skillet for flavor.
- Add olive oil to the skillet, then season and sear the diced chicken until golden brown, approximately 5–6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside for later.
- In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
- Stir in the uncooked penne pasta; bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 12–14 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.
- Mix in the cubed cream cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, then add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Return the chicken and bacon to the skillet, stirring gently to combine, and simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
