Go Back
A close-up shot showcases the creamy texture and delicious ingredients of Crack Chicken Penne, the featured recipe.
Lady Maria

Easy Crack Chicken Penne

This addictively delicious Crack Chicken Penne combines creamy, cheesy goodness with savory bacon and chicken. It's a comforting and flavorful pasta dish that's easy to make and sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The combination of cream cheese, ranch, and bacon creates an irresistible flavor profile.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and shredded
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions optional
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray if baking

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • Large bowl
  • 9x13 inch baking dish (optional)
  • mixing spoon
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • knife
  • Cutting board
  • Oven (optional)

Method
 

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, ensure your chicken is cooked and shredded. You can boil, bake, or grill the chicken. Rotisserie chicken works great as a shortcut.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, ranch dressing mix, and milk. Mix until smooth and creamy.
  4. Add the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, and crumbled bacon to the cream cheese mixture. Stir well to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated in the sauce. Reserve a little bit of cheddar and bacon for topping.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that ranch dressing mix and bacon are already salty, so be mindful of how much salt you add.
  6. For a warm, melty dish, transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  7. Sprinkle the reserved cheddar cheese and bacon over the top.
  8. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy.

Notes

For best results, ensure the cream cheese is fully softened before mixing. Taste and adjust seasoning carefully due to the salt content of the ranch dressing mix and bacon. The baking step is optional but adds a nice melty texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a touch of heat. Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor profile.