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Crack Chicken Penne: Creamy, Cheesy One-Pot Pasta

Tender chicken, crispy bacon, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and cheddar tossed with penne in a rich, creamy one-pot sauce. Ready in 35 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 720

Ingredients
  

  • 10 oz penne pasta
  • 8 slices bacon chopped
  • 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch cubes
  • salt and pepper to taste for seasoning chicken
  • 0.5 whole yellow onion minced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 packet dry ranch dressing mix
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tsp dried parsley
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese block-shredded preferred
  • chopped green onions for garnish

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Paper towels
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
  2. In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set on paper towels to drain.
  3. Remove all but 1 tablespoon of bacon grease from the pot. Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes, season with salt and pepper, and saute until browned on all sides.
  4. Add the minced onion and cook until the chicken is cooked through and the onion is soft and translucent, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, sour cream, softened cream cheese, ranch seasoning, salt, pepper, parsley, and cooked bacon. Stir well until the cream cheese is fully melted. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
  6. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked pasta. Mix until well combined. Simmer on low for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  7. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve immediately.

Notes

Soften cream cheese at room temperature for 20 minutes before cooking for a smoother sauce. Always shred cheddar from a block. Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating leftovers to restore creaminess.
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