I have to say—this recipe is one of my family's all-time favorites. For me, it's perfect: a one-pot meal that comes together easily and tastes amazing. Crack Chicken Pasta always brings smiles around the table. It’s loaded with cheese, pasta, chicken, and of course, bacon. What would a “crack” dish be without bacon?
I love how the creamy sauce seeps into the holes of the penne pasta, giving every bite a rich, satisfying flavor. Everyone knows how much I love bacon (and cheese... and chicken), and this dish combines all three beautifully. I make this on the stovetop, and dinner is ready in no time—perfect for those busy weeknights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is this called Crack Chicken Pasta?
It's a playful name that refers to how addictive the dish is. Creamy, cheesy, and full of bacon—it’s hard to stop eating it!
Could I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute turkey or ground chicken. Some people even use Italian sausage for a different flavor twist.
Are there any variations for this recipe?
Definitely! Add bell peppers, sweet potatoes, or even squash for color and texture. A packet of ranch seasoning adds even more flavor.
Can I freeze this dish?
I don’t recommend it. The creamy sauce tends to separate and lose its texture once thawed.
How should I store leftover Crack Chicken Pasta?
Let it cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How do I reheat the Crack Chicken Pasta?
The best method is on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or cream. Heat over medium until warmed through.
What should I serve with this?
A simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables pairs perfectly with this rich and creamy pasta.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast (cut into pieces)
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Bacon (cooked and crumbled)
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Penne Pasta (cooked)
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Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix
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Cream Cheese (softened)
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Chicken Broth
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Mozzarella Cheese (shredded)
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Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
Optional for garnish:
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Grated parmesan cheese
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Fresh chopped parsley
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
First: Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Once crisp, remove and set aside to cool.
Second: Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
Third: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
Fourth: In the same skillet used for bacon, cook the chicken until lightly browned on all sides.
Fifth: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
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Sixth: Add the chicken broth and penne pasta to the skillet. Cover and boil until the pasta is al dente.
Seventh: Once pasta is cooked, add cream cheese and stir until it forms a creamy sauce.
Eighth: Add crumbled bacon, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella. Stir until cheese is melted and well combined.
Ninth: Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top, turn off the heat, and cover the skillet.
Tenth: Let sit for a few minutes until cheese is melted.
Eleventh: Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley and grated parmesan if desired.
Crack Chicken Pasta
Crack Chicken Pasta always brings smiles around the table. It’s loaded with cheese, pasta, chicken, and of course, bacon. What would a “crack” dish be without bacon?
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into pieces
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 oz penne pasta, cooked according to directions
- 1 packet dry ranch seasoning mix
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional for garnish:
- Grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Once crisp, remove and set aside to cool.
Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces.
In the same skillet used for bacon, cook the chicken until lightly browned on all sides.
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.
Add the chicken broth and penne pasta to the skillet. Cover and boil until the pasta is al dente.
Once pasta is cooked, add cream cheese and stir until it forms a creamy sauce.
Add crumbled bacon, 1 cup of cheddar cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella. Stir until cheese is melted and well combined.
Sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese on top, turn off the heat, and cover the skillet.
Let sit for a few minutes until cheese is melted.
Before serving, garnish with chopped parsley and grated parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 184Total Fat: 12gSaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 6gCholesterol: 264mgCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 12g
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