What type of pasta is best for making crack chicken penne?

- Answer should mention that penne is ideal for this recipe because its shape holds the creamy sauce well. Include that other short pasta shapes like rotini or rigatoni can be used but long noodles might clump. Briefly note gluten-free options and any cooking time adjustments. This addresses common user queries about pasta choice and improves relevancy with natural keyword use.

Can I prepare crack chicken penne ahead of time or freeze it for later?

- Clarify that the dish can be prepared in advance but freezing is generally not recommended due to the cheese sauce’s texture changes upon thawing. Provide best practices for storing in the fridge (up to 3 days) and reheating tips to maintain sauce consistency. This answers a common concern and discourages poor freezing outcomes, enhancing user satisfaction and reducing bounce.

How can I fix a sauce that is too watery when making crack chicken penne?

- Explain simple techniques like simmering the sauce uncovered to reduce liquid or cooking pasta uncovered to evaporate moisture. Mention that cream cheese sauces thicken as they cool to reassure users. This practical cooking tip improves user experience and aligns with frequent troubleshooting questions.

Is it possible to use leftover cooked chicken in crack chicken penne?

- State that leftover chicken can be incorporated easily by adding it after the pasta is cooked, skipping the browning step. Suggest adjusting seasoning accordingly. This supports time-saving cooks and encourages recipe flexibility, naturally incorporating relevant keywords.

How long should I cook the chicken for crack chicken penne, and how do I ensure it stays tender?

- Provide guidance on quickly browning chicken for 2–3 minutes and finishing cooking during sauce preparation. Include tips on avoiding overcooking to keep chicken tender. This addresses process-focused user questions and opportunities to include key preparation details for better search visibility.

Crack Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe for Quick Weeknight Dinner

Name: Creamy Crack Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe for Easy Weeknight Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 to 8 slices thick-cut bacon, diced; 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces; 1 ounce ranch seasoning mix (1 packet or 2 tablespoons); 8 to 12 ounces dry penne pasta (or pasta of choice); 3 1/2 to 4 cups low sodium or no salt added chicken broth; 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional); 1/4 to 1/2 cup diced onion (optional); 3/4 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional); 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup (optional); 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish; Optional: freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Description

🍗 Enjoy a creamy, cheesy crack chicken penne pasta that’s simple and quick for weeknight dinners.
🧀 This dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and melty cheese for comforting, delicious flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

4 to 8 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
1 ounce ranch seasoning mix (1 packet or 2 tablespoons)
8 to 12 ounces dry penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
3 1/2 to 4 cups low sodium or no salt added chicken broth
4 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
1/4 to 1/2 cup diced onion (optional)
3/4 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (optional)
1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed cream of chicken soup (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish
Optional: freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook diced bacon in a large Dutch oven or skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and reserve some for garnish. Drain fat leaving about 1 tablespoon.
2. Add chicken (and onion if using) to pot and brown over medium-high heat for 3 to 6 minutes, not fully cooked. Season with ranch seasoning, Cajun seasoning, and pepper. Stir to coat.
3. Add dry penne pasta and chicken broth, scraping the bottom to loosen browned bits. Bring to boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Ensure 3 1/2 to 4 cups of liquid remain; add broth if needed.
5. Stir in cream cheese and cream of chicken soup until smooth.
6. Mix in cooked bacon (except reserved), 1 cup cheddar, and mozzarella cheese until melted.
7. Sprinkle remaining cheddar on top and cover for 30 seconds to 1 minute or broil 3 to 5 minutes until cheese bubbles and browns slightly.
8. Remove from heat, garnish with parsley and Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

🍗 Avoid overcooking chicken during browning; it finishes cooking with pasta.
🍲 Simmer pasta covered to retain moisture; remove lid if sauce is too thin near end.
🧀 Hand-grate cheese for best melting and flavor, though pre-shredded works too.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Simmering and Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 640
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 1150mg
Fat: 33g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 39g
Cholesterol: 125mg

Keywords: Creamy, Crack Chicken, Penne Pasta, Easy Dinner