Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne is a delightful mix of familiar ingredients that promises a burst of flavor in each bite. Combining creamy, cheesy sauces with tender chicken and crispy bacon, this dish is a guaranteed hit for anyone seeking comfort food with a twist.

Its rich and satisfying taste makes it a perfect choice for family dinners or casual gatherings.

He always looks for ways to make dinner both quick and satisfying, so discovering Crack Chicken Penne was like hitting the jackpot. With just one pan needed, cleanup is a breeze, making it an ideal recipe for busy weekdays.

Plus, the combination of chicken, bacon, and a creamy sauce never fails to bring smiles to the table.

People are drawn to the dish’s ability to impress with minimal effort. The use of penne pasta ensures that it holds the sauce well, making each bite savory and filling.

Cooking this dish has been a favorite choice for many, especially on those nights when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You Will Love Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

One-Pot Wonder: Crack Chicken Penne is a one-pot recipe, making it convenient for busy evenings. With minimal cleanup, it allows more time to enjoy a delicious meal.

Flavor Explosion: The recipe combines smoky bacon, tangy ranch, and creamy cheese. This blend creates a taste that keeps people coming back for more.

Comfort Food: Each bite of Crack Chicken Penne provides a comforting experience, thanks to its rich and creamy texture. It’s like a warm hug on a plate.

Quick and Easy: With short prep and cooking time, this dish is perfect for those with busy schedules. It’s a great go-to meal when time is tight.

Nutritious and Hearty: With around 35 grams of protein per serving, Crack Chicken Penne offers a healthy meal choice that is also satisfying and filling.

Family Favorite: This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners. Its kid-friendly flavors make it a hit for both children and adults alike.

Versatile Meal: Whether serving for dinner or preparing meals for the week, this dish fits any setting. It adapts well to different occasions.

How To Make Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

This hearty dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy, cheesy goodness. You’ll use simple ingredients like chicken breasts, penne pasta, and ranch seasoning to create a savory flavor. Get ready to enjoy a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Using fresh and high-quality ingredients makes a big difference in taste. You’ll need:

• Chicken Breasts: Cut into cubes for even cooking.
• Bacon: Smoked bacon gives a crispy texture.
• Penne Pasta: Cook until al dente.
• Cream Cheese & Heavy Cream: For a creamy sauce.
• Cheddar & Parmesan Cheese: Adds a rich flavor.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix: Enhances the taste.
• Garlic, Onion & Chicken Broth: For depth and aroma.
• Olive Oil & Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for cooking.

Other optional ingredients might include fresh parsley for garnish or substitutes like gluten-free pasta or diced yellow onion for personal preferences.

Instruments

Having the right tools ensures a smooth cooking process. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Pot: For boiling pasta.
• Large Skillet: Ideal for meat and sauce.
• Wooden Spoon: Helps stir without scratching pans.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping chicken and vegetables.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures precise measurements.
• Colander: To drain pasta.

A whisk can help blend the sauce smoothly. It’s also useful to have a cheese grater on hand if you’re using block cheese.

Step By Step Instruction

Begin by cooking the penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain in a colander and set aside.

Next, in a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.

Add chicken to the skillet with salt, pepper, garlic, and onions, cooking until the chicken is tender and browned.

Stir in ranch seasoning, then add chicken broth, heavy cream, and cream cheese. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens.

Combine pasta with the sauce, adding cheddar and parmesan cheeses. Mix well until everything is coated.

Top with crispy bacon and fresh parsley before serving hot.

This delicious dish balances rich flavors, making it an immediate hit at the dinner table.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Crack Chicken Penne perfectly involves a few handy tips.

To ensure the penne is cooked just right, set a timer and aim for ‘al dente,’ meaning the pasta is firm yet tender. Overcooking can result in mushy pasta, which isn’t as enjoyable.

For a richer flavor, using a mix of olive oil and butter when cooking the chicken does wonders. Cooking the chicken in bacon fat elevates the taste further by adding a touch of smokiness and depth.

If the sauce appears too thick, you can adjust its consistency by adding more chicken broth. This ensures the dish remains creamy without being overly heavy.

When dealing with leftovers, proper storage is key. Transfer any leftover Crack Chicken Penne to an airtight container before refrigerating it for up to three days. Ensuring the pasta is completely cooled before storing prevents unwanted sogginess.

Reheating can be tricky, but gently warming the leftovers on the stove or in the microwave should do the trick. Adding a splash of broth while reheating helps bring back the creamy texture without drying it out.

Ingredient Substitute

When making Crack Chicken Penne, ingredient substitutes can cater to diverse dietary needs and preferences. Here’s how to make some swaps.

Chicken Alternatives

For those seeking a different protein, turkey is a great substitute. It adds a similar rich taste and works well with the dish’s flavors. Vegetarians can opt for tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives.

Dairy-Free and Vegan Options

Those avoiding dairy can use vegan cheese. It’s widely available and melts nicely into the sauce. To replace cream cheese, vegan cream cheese offers a smooth texture, keeping the dish creamy without compromising taste.

Lower Fat Content

Replacing regular cream cheese with low-fat cream cheese is an easy switch that reduces the dish’s fat content. This keeps it lighter while maintaining its savory qualities.

Carbohydrate Conversions

For those on a gluten-free diet, swapping regular penne with gluten-free pasta is an effective adjustment. These options, produced from rice or corn, retain a firm texture similar to traditional pasta.

These substitutions ensure that Crack Chicken Penne remains delicious, yet adaptable for different diets and preferences.

What To Serve With Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

Crack Chicken Penne is rich and creamy, so pairing it with a green salad can be a great choice. The fresh crunch of the lettuce and a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the pasta’s rich flavors.

Another delicious option is garlic bread. The crispy edges and buttery, garlicky flavor make it perfect for scooping up any extra sauce left on the plate.

Roasted vegetables are another wonderful side dish. Roasting brings out the sweetness and adds a depth of flavor, balancing the creamy pasta. Think about using vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or bell peppers.

For those who enjoy balancing a savory dish with a hint of sweetness, a fruit salad can be delightful. The juicy fruits offer a burst of freshness and make the meal feel more complete.

A few side dishes enhance the Crack Chicken Penne experience, offering different tastes and textures. Whether you choose salad, bread, or fruit, these sides can make the meal even more enjoyable.

Nutrition Fact In List Form

They love Crack Chicken Penne for its rich taste and simplicity. It’s a popular choice for family dinners and busy weeknights, as it’s a one-pot wonder. Here is the nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: Approx. 600 to 800 calories
• Protein: Around 30 to 35 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35 to 50 grams
• Fat: 25 to 40 grams
• Fiber: About 2 grams
• Sodium: Roughly 900 mg

While this dish can be heavy in calories and fat, some see it as comfort food. This includes lovers of quick and easy meals.

For those interested in creating a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese and cheese. For a vegetarian twist, omit chicken and bacon. Simple ingredients make this a versatile recipe for many preferences!

Frequently Asked Questions

Crack Chicken Penne is loved for its creamy sauce and cheesy chicken. This section answers common queries about making this creamy pasta dish as delicious as possible.

What is the origin of the name ‘Marry Me Chicken’?

The name ‘Marry Me Chicken’ often piques curiosity. It’s believed to be called this because the flavors are so enticing, it might just prompt a marriage proposal. The dish typically includes rich ingredients like creamy sauce and tender chicken.

How do I prevent my chicken penne from becoming too runny?

To keep this creamy dish from getting too runny, adjust the liquid levels. Reduce added broth or water slowly until you reach the right consistency. Cook sauces gradually, allowing them to thicken naturally. Keeping an eye on the cooking process helps prevent a watery dish.

What is the best way to serve crack chicken?

Serving crack chicken at its best means highlighting its creamy and cheesy flavors. Consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or warm garlic bread. This balance allows the rich creamy sauce to shine, making every bite satisfying.

Can penne pasta be cooked directly in the chicken broth for added flavor?

Yes, cooking penne pasta in chicken broth infuses it with wonderful flavors. It enhances the entire dish, combining the tastes seamlessly with the cheesy chicken sauce. This technique enriches the pasta and complements the creamy goodness of the dish.

What are the essential ingredients for a creamy crack chicken penne recipe?

Essential ingredients for this dish include penne pasta, chicken, cream cheese, and bacon. Each piece adds to the creamy, cheesy composition that makes Crack Chicken Penne so irresistible. Adding seasoning ensures that the flavors pop in each bite.

How can I integrate rotisserie chicken into a crack chicken pasta dish?

Using rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut for quick preparation. Shred the chicken and mix it into the creamy sauce after the pasta is cooked. This can save time while still delivering the delicious taste of tender, cooked chicken in the creamy pasta dish.