Crack chicken penne is a delicious and indulgent dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken, bacon, ranch seasoning, and creamy cheese with perfectly cooked penne pasta. This dish has become a favorite in many households due to its rich and comforting taste, making it an ideal meal for family dinners, gatherings, or simply when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. In this article, we’ll explore the ingredients, preparation methods, variations, and serving suggestions for crack chicken penne, along with tips to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.
The Allure of Crack Chicken Penne
The combination of creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and ranch seasoning has made “crack chicken” dishes incredibly popular. Adding pasta to this mix elevates the dish, making it a more filling and satisfying meal. The term “crack” in this context refers to the addictive nature of the flavors—once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again.
For those who enjoy rich and flavorful comfort food, this dish is a must-try. To explore more comfort food options, consider checking out this Honey Pepper Chicken with Creamy Macaroni Cheese recipe, which offers another delicious and satisfying meal idea.
Ingredients for the Perfect Crack Chicken Penne
To make a delicious crack chicken penne, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. Dice them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce. Cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble it into small pieces.
- Ranch Seasoning: You can use store-bought ranch seasoning or make your own for a fresher, more customizable flavor. For a homemade version, check out this How to Make Homemade Ranch Seasoning guide.
- Penne Pasta: Penne is ideal for this dish because its ridges hold onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Cream Cheese: Full-fat cream cheese is recommended for the creamiest sauce, but you can use a reduced-fat version if you prefer.
- Cheese (Colby Jack or Cheddar): Colby Jack provides a mild, creamy flavor, while cheddar adds a sharper taste. You can also experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack.
- Chicken Broth: Use chicken broth to add moisture and depth to the sauce. Homemade chicken broth is best, but store-bought works too.
- Vegetables (Optional): While the traditional recipe focuses on chicken and bacon, you can add vegetables like onions, garlic, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Crack Chicken Penne
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by dicing the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Cook the bacon in a large skillet until crispy, then remove it from the pan and crumble it into small pieces. Shred the cheese and set it aside for later use.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Bacon
In the same skillet used to cook the bacon, add the diced chicken and cook it until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Leave a small amount of bacon grease in the skillet to add flavor to the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
In the skillet with the remaining bacon grease, add the cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
Step 4: Cook the Penne Pasta
While the sauce is simmering, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it to al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Drain the penne pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce, chicken, and bacon. Stir until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Bake the Dish
Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For more tips on cooking pasta to perfection, you might find this article on Tips for Cooking Perfect Pasta Every Time helpful.
Variations of Crack Chicken Penne
While the classic crack chicken penne recipe is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to suit your taste preferences:
1. Low-Carb Crack Chicken Penne
To make a low-carb version of this dish, substitute the penne pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. These alternatives are lower in carbs and calories but still absorb the rich, creamy sauce.
2. Spicy Crack Chicken Penne
Add some heat to the dish by incorporating spicy sausage, jalapeños, or extra hot sauce. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice in their meals.
3. Vegetable-Loaded Crack Chicken Penne
Enhance the nutritional content of the dish by adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. These additions not only add flavor but also make the dish more colorful and appealing.
4. Gluten-Free Crack Chicken Penne
To make this dish gluten-free, simply use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure that all other ingredients, such as ranch seasoning, are also gluten-free.
5. Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Penne
For a more hands-off approach, consider making this dish in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients except the pasta and cheese in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours. Add the cooked pasta and cheese in the last 30 minutes to complete the dish.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Crack chicken penne is a rich and filling dish, but it pairs well with lighter side dishes and refreshing beverages:
- Side Dishes: Garlic bread, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables are excellent accompaniments to this dish.
- Beverage Pairings: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer complements the rich flavors of the dish. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving with iced tea or sparkling water.
- Presentation Tips: Serve the pasta in a large, shallow dish, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. This adds a pop of color and enhances the visual appeal.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
Caloric Content:
Crack chicken penne is a calorie-dense dish due to the cream cheese, bacon, and cheese. However, it is also high in protein, making it a satisfying meal.
Nutritional Benefits:
Chicken provides lean protein, while the cheese and cream cheese offer calcium. If you add vegetables, you’ll also boost the dish’s fiber and vitamin content.
Healthier Alternatives:
To lighten the dish, consider using reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese. You can also increase the vegetable content to lower the overall calorie count while adding more nutrients.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Overcooking the Chicken
Chicken can become dry and tough if overcooked. To prevent this, cook the chicken just until it is no longer pink in the center.
2. Using Too Much Cheese
While cheese is delicious, using too much can make the dish overly rich and greasy. Balance the amount of cheese with the other ingredients for the best flavor.
3. Undercooking or Overcooking the Pasta
Cook the penne pasta to al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture.
4. Skipping the Bacon Step
Bacon adds a smoky flavor that is essential to the dish. Don’t skip this step, even if you’re short on time.
FAQs About Crack Chicken Penne
Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?
Yes, while penne is the preferred choice, other pasta shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or bowtie pasta can also work well.
How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make crack chicken penne gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure that other ingredients, like ranch seasoning, are also gluten-free.
Can I prepare Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, bake it in the oven until heated through.
What are some dairy-free alternatives for this recipe?
You can use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives to make this dish dairy-free. Coconut milk can also be used as a substitute for the creaminess.
How long can I store leftovers in the refrigerator?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne?
Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Why is it called crack chicken?
It’s called crack chicken because the combination of creamy cheese, ranch seasoning, and bacon is so flavorful and addictive that people jokingly refer to it as “crack.”
What goes good with crack chicken?
Crack chicken pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad.
Does chicken go in pasta?
Yes, chicken is a popular addition to pasta dishes, adding protein and a savory flavor that complements sauces and other ingredients.
How to make Costco chicken penne alfredo?
To make Costco-style chicken penne alfredo, cook penne pasta, mix it with Alfredo sauce, grilled chicken, and Parmesan cheese, then bake until bubbly and golden.
Conclusion
Crack chicken penne is the ultimate comfort food, combining the rich flavors of chicken, bacon, ranch seasoning, and creamy cheese with the satisfying texture of penne pasta. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. The key to perfect crack chicken penne lies in balancing the flavors and textures, ensuring that each bite is as delicious as the last. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can create a dish that’s not only flavorful but also tailored to your tastes and dietary needs.
For more comfort food inspiration, don’t miss this Crack Chicken Noodle Soup recipe, which offers another hearty and satisfying meal option.
Enjoy your time in the kitchen, and remember that the secret to a great dish is the love and care you put into it. Happy cooking!