If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food that checks all the boxes, creamy, cheesy, loaded with flavor, and ready in one pot, this Crack Chicken Penne recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite.
What’s not to love? Tender bites of chicken, crispy bacon, melty cheddar, and the irresistible kick of ranch seasoning all come together in a rich, creamy sauce that clings to every piece of penne pasta. And the best part? It’s all made in one pan, with minimal cleanup and maximum deliciousness.
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy, satisfying dinner that hits the spot, this dish has your back. It’s the kind of recipe that earns a permanent spot in your rotation, the one you make “just one more time” again and again.
In this post, you’ll find:
- A step-by-step method that’s super beginner-friendly
- Tips to get that perfect creamy texture every time
- Creative variations and helpful storage tips
- Answers to the most commonly asked questions
Table of Contents
What Is Crack Chicken Penne?
Crack Chicken Penne is the perfect storm of comfort food, a creamy, cheesy pasta dish loaded with savory chicken, crispy bacon, rich cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and the signature punch of ranch seasoning. It’s called “crack” chicken for a reason: it’s so irresistibly good, people can’t stop coming back for more. Combine that with hearty penne pasta and you’ve got a one-pot meal that’s both filling and addictive in all the best ways.
Originally, Crack Chicken started as a slow cooker dish combining shredded chicken, cream cheese, ranch, and bacon. Over time, foodies (and busy parents!) gave it a twist by turning it into a pasta version, more satisfying, more complete, and even more delicious.
This recipe gives you all the crave-worthy flavor, but in one single pot and about 30 minutes or less. That means fewer dishes and a faster route to comfort.
Why It Works
- Ranch + Bacon = Flavor bomb
- Cream cheese + cheddar = Ultimate creamy texture
- Penne = Perfect pasta to hold the sauce
- One-pot method = Less cleanup, more convenience
Whether you’re making this for a crowd, a cozy family dinner, or a meal-prep session, it’s a guaranteed hit. And once you make it, you’ll understand exactly why it’s earned its addictive nickname.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you dive into this creamy, cheesy pasta dream, let’s round up everything you need to make One-Pot Crack Chicken Penne. The good news? Most of these are pantry and fridge staples, and every ingredient plays a key role in building that rich, addictive flavor.
📝 Core Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or butter, for richness)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (sharp or mild, your call!)
- 12 oz penne pasta (or any sturdy short pasta)
- 3 ½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream (for extra creaminess)
- Salt to taste
🍴 Optional (But Delicious) Add-Ins
- Chopped spinach or kale – stir in at the end for a pop of green
- Steamed broccoli florets – for a veggie boost
- Red pepper flakes – for a little kick
- Parmesan cheese – for topping, always a win
🔄 Ingredient Swaps & Variations
- Chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra flavor
- Turkey bacon for a lighter twist
- Low-carb pasta or zucchini noodles for keto-friendly version
- Lactose-free cream cheese & plant-based milk for dairy sensitivity
🧂 Pro Tip: Use room-temperature cream cheese for smoother melting, it makes all the difference in getting that velvety sauce just right.
How to Make Crack Chicken Penne (Step-by-Step)
Ready to get dinner on the table in just one pot? Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a creamy, cheesy, flavor-packed pasta dish that’s impossible to resist. Let’s break it down:
🟦 Step 1: Sauté the Chicken & Bacon
- Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped chicken pieces and season with ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Sauté for about 5–6 minutes, until the chicken is lightly browned and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, cook the bacon until crispy (or use pre-cooked bacon to save time). Crumble it and set aside.
🔥 Pro Tip: Leave a bit of bacon grease in the pot, it adds insane flavor to the sauce!
🟦 Step 2: Add Pasta & Broth
Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is just tender.
Pour uncooked penne pasta into the pot.
Add chicken broth and give it a gentle stir to coat all the pasta.
Let the mixture come to a light boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer over medium-low.
🟦 Step 3: Make It Creamy
- Once the pasta is cooked, lower the heat.
- Add in softened cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and milk or heavy cream.
- Stir slowly until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce becomes thick and creamy.
- Return the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the pot, stirring everything together.
🧀 Want it extra gooey? Add more shredded cheddar and cover for 2 minutes to let it melt on top like a casserole.
🟦 Step 4: Taste & Serve
- Season with salt if needed.
- Garnish with extra bacon, a sprinkle of cheddar or parmesan, and chopped parsley if you’re feeling fancy.
- Serve hot and watch the whole table go quiet in food bliss.
Tips for the Creamiest, Dreamiest Crack Chicken Pasta
Want that ultra-silky, rich sauce that wraps every piece of pasta like a warm, cheesy hug? These expert tips will take your One-Pot Crack Chicken Penne from “pretty good” to absolutely restaurant-worthy, every single time.
1. Use Room-Temperature Cream Cheese
Cold cream cheese can clump when it hits hot pasta. Let it sit out for 20–30 minutes before cooking, or microwave it (unwrapped) for 15 seconds. It will melt faster and blend seamlessly into the sauce.
2. Shred Your Own Cheese
Pre-shredded cheddar has anti-caking agents that can make sauces grainy. For that melty, velvety finish, grate cheddar fresh off the block, it’s worth the extra minute.
3. Don’t Overcook the Pasta
You want the penne to be al dente, cooked, but still firm. Overcooked pasta will absorb too much sauce and turn mushy. Stir occasionally during simmering, and check it around the 10-minute mark.
4. Thin Out the Sauce If Needed
Too thick? Stir in a splash of warm milk or reserved chicken broth until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It’ll stay rich, but won’t feel heavy.
5. Taste Before You Salt
The ranch mix, bacon, and cheese are already salty. Always taste the finished dish before adding extra salt — you might not need any at all.
6. Add Greens at the End (Optional)
Want to sneak in some veggies? Toss in a handful of baby spinach, kale, or steamed broccoli during the final minute of cooking. The residual heat will wilt them perfectly into the sauce.
Variations & Substitutions
One of the best things about this One-Pot Crack Chicken Penne is how flexible it is. Whether you’re working with dietary needs, pantry limitations, or just want to mix things up, there’s a version of this recipe for you.
Here are the most popular (and delicious) ways to remix your pasta night:
🔄 Pasta Swaps
- Gluten-Free Pasta – Use your favorite gluten-free penne or rotini. Just keep an eye on the cook time, some GF pastas cook faster and break down easily.
- Low-Carb / Keto – Replace penne with zucchini noodles, shirataki noodles, or cauliflower florets for a lighter take.
- Macaroni or Rotini – Any short-cut pasta that holds sauce well will work. Even shells or rigatoni are great here.
🍗 Protein Options
- Rotisserie Chicken – Huge time-saver! Shred and stir it in at the end.
- Chicken Thighs – Juicier than breast meat and adds a richer flavor.
- Turkey Bacon or Vegan Bacon – Still crispy, still delicious, and great for dietary preferences.
- Add Extra Protein – Toss in cooked sausage, diced ham, or even crispy tofu for a twist.
🧀 Dairy-Free Version
- Use dairy-free cream cheese (like Kite Hill or Tofutti)
- Sub in plant-based cheddar
- Swap whole milk for oat milk or unsweetened almond milk
🥦 Veggie Add-Ins
- Steamed Broccoli – Stir in during the last 2 minutes.
- Spinach or Kale – Add at the very end and let it wilt naturally.
- Sautéed Mushrooms or Peas – Great for extra flavor and texture.
🛠️ Make It a Casserole
Want a baked version? Pour the finished pasta into a casserole dish, top with more cheddar and bacon, and broil for 3–5 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Storage, Reheating & Freezing Tips
Made too much? No worries, One-Pot Crack Chicken Penne is just as good the next day (and the next). Here’s how to store, reheat, and even freeze your leftovers while keeping that creamy, cheesy goodness intact.
🧊 How to Store Leftovers
- Fridge: Transfer the pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
- Make sure it’s fully cooled before sealing to avoid condensation (which can make it watery later).
🔥 How to Reheat Crack Chicken Penne
- Stovetop (Best Option): Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to a skillet and warm over medium-low heat. Stir gently until creamy again.
- Microwave: Reheat in 30–45 second intervals, stirring in between. Add a tablespoon of milk if needed to revive the sauce.
- Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat at 350°F for 15–20 minutes.
🧀 Pro Tip: Add a little shredded cheese on top before reheating for extra creaminess.
❄️ Can You Freeze Crack Chicken Pasta?
Yes, you can, but with one big note: the sauce may separate a bit when thawed due to the dairy.
- To Freeze: Let the pasta cool completely, then portion into airtight freezer containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- To Reheat from Frozen: Thaw overnight in the fridge. Then reheat on the stove with a bit of broth or milk to bring the sauce back together.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutrition breakdown for one generous serving of One-Pot Crack Chicken Penne. This assumes the recipe yields 6 servings.
Note: Values are approximate and can vary based on exact ingredients and brands used.
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~620 kcal |
| Total Fat | 32g |
| Saturated Fat | 14g |
| Cholesterol | 105mg |
| Sodium | 890mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Sugars | 3g |
| Protein | 36g |
| Calcium | 220mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
🧠 Nutritional Highlights:
- High in Protein: Thanks to chicken, cheese, and bacon, ideal for post-workout meals or keeping full longer.
- Rich & Satisfying: Creamy dairy and pasta make it comforting but indulgent.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients (like turkey bacon, low-fat cheese, or low-carb pasta) to suit your dietary goals.
🧂 Pro Tip: If you’re tracking macros or following a specific diet (like keto, low-sodium, or high-protein), this recipe is super flexible, check out the Variations section above for easy swaps!
Crack Chicken Penne FAQs
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for holding creamy sauces, you can easily swap it out for rotini, shells, rigatoni, or even elbow macaroni. Just keep in mind that different shapes may cook slightly faster or slower, so adjust your simmer time accordingly.
Is crack chicken pasta spicy?
Not at all! This dish is full of bold flavor thanks to ranch seasoning, bacon, and cheddar, but it’s not spicy. If you like a kick, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Crack Chicken Penne is a great make-ahead meal. You can fully cook it, let it cool, then refrigerate it for up to 3–4 days. When reheating, just add a little milk to loosen up the sauce and it’ll taste just as fresh.
What if my sauce is too thick?
This is super common with creamy one-pot pastas. Simply stir in a splash of warm milk, chicken broth, or even a bit of pasta water to thin the sauce to your liking. Heat it gently and stir until smooth.
Is there a keto version of this recipe?
You bet! Swap the pasta for steamed cauliflower, zucchini noodles, or shirataki pasta, and use full-fat dairy products. Keep the chicken, bacon, cream cheese, and ranch, those are already keto-friendly!
Can I make it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Definitely. While this recipe is optimized for the stovetop, you can:
Use the Instant Pot on sauté mode to cook the chicken, then pressure cook the pasta and broth for 5 minutes, quick release, and stir in the cheeses.
In a slow cooker, cook the chicken, ranch, cream cheese, and bacon on low for 4–6 hours, then stir in cooked pasta at the end.
One-Pot Crack Chicken Penne Recipe – Ultra Creamy & Irresistible
Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil – or butter
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 6 slices bacon – cooked and crumbled
- 8 oz cream cheese – softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 oz penne pasta – uncooked
- 3½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
- ½ cup milk – or heavy cream
- Salt – to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chicken, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, cook bacon until crispy. Crumble and set aside, leaving a bit of the grease in the pot.
- Add uncooked penne and chicken broth. Stir to coat, bring to a light boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the pasta is tender, stir in cream cheese, cheddar, and milk. Mix until creamy and smooth.
- Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the pot. Stir everything together and taste for seasoning.
- Serve hot, garnished with more cheese, parsley, or bacon if desired.
Notes
- Use room-temperature cream cheese for a smoother sauce.
- Add a splash of milk when reheating leftovers.
- Swap penne for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Final Thoughts
If you made it this far, you’re probably already hooked, and we don’t blame you. This One-Pot Crack Chicken Penne is rich, comforting, and totally addictive in the best way possible.
Tried it? We’d love to hear what you think!
⭐ Leave a comment, rate the recipe, and tag us if you post your cheesy masterpiece online.
📌 And don’t forget to Pin it or share it with your favorite pasta lover!
Loved This Recipe? Try These Next! 🍽️
Keep the cozy comfort food vibes going with these reader favorites:
- 🧄 Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta – creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor.
- 🍗 Leftover Rotisserie Chicken Recipes – turn your extras into delicious meals.
- 🍲 Crockpot Birria Tacos – melt-in-your-mouth beef with bold flavor.
- 🥗 Chicken Salad Recipe Without Celery – creamy, crunchy, and totally customizable.
- 🌱 Gluten-Free Salads – fresh and satisfying, minus the gluten.
- 🧂 Hot Cowgirl Casserole – spicy, creamy, and unapologetically bold.
- 🧀 Taco Potato Casserole – a family favorite packed with flavor.
- 🐟 Sticky Miso Salmon Bowl – a healthy and bold weeknight winner.
- 🥬 Matthew McConaughey’s Tuna Salad Recipe – yes, it’s real. And it’s delicious.
- 🍠 Paula Deen Sweet Potato Casserole – dessert or dinner? You decide.