By Crack Chicken Penne is a comfort-food classic made simpler for home cooks. With everyday ingredients and reliable technique, it delivers big flavor with little effort.
Crack Chicken Penne captures the essence of meals|chicken while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Crack Chicken Penne becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 lb chicken breast, cubed
1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder
3 cups chicken broth
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
8 oz penne pasta, uncooked
1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
PREPARATION STEPS
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
Add the cubed chicken to the pan, season with ranch seasoning, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
Top with crispy bacon and garnish with chopped green onions.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cooking Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 40 mins
Kcal: 650 | Servings: 4
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 35 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~350 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
