What is crack seasoning on chicken?

Crack seasoning usually refers to a blend that includes dry ranch seasoning, garlic, onion, and sometimes a touch of spice. In the crack chicken penne recipe, we use ranch seasoning mix, which pairs incredibly well with cream cheese and cheddar. It gives the chicken that bold, tangy flavor that keeps you coming back for another forkful.

What is the difference between penne and pasta?

Penne is a specific type of pasta, shaped like short tubes with angled edges. It’s ideal for dishes like crack chicken penne because the sauce clings to the ridges, making every bite flavorful. “Pasta” is the general term for all shapes spaghetti, rotini, farfalle, and more.

Do you put cream of chicken soup in crack chicken?

Some crack chicken variations use canned cream of chicken soup as a shortcut, but in this crack chicken penne recipe, the creaminess comes naturally from cream cheese and cheddar. That way, you skip the preservatives and keep the texture silkier and more homemade.

What goes well with crack chicken?

Crack chicken pairs wonderfully with simple sides that bring freshness or texture. Light salads, lemon-roasted vegetables, or even a tangy slaw cut through the richness. If you want to go all-in, serve it with a slice of buttered chicken noodle bake or keep things balanced with something crisp like a balsamic veggie mix.

Crack Chicken Penne Recipe – 1-Pot, Creamy & Easy Dinner

Description

This Crack Chicken Penne recipe brings together juicy chicken, crispy bacon, ranch seasoning, and melty cheese in one creamy one-pot meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

Ingredients

4 slices thick-cut bacon

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast, diced

1 ounce ranch seasoning (1 packet or 2 tbsp)

8 ounces uncooked penne pasta

3½ cups low-sodium chicken broth

4 ounces cream cheese

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

1. Cook bacon until crispy, remove and chop into bits.

2. Add chicken to pot, cook 3 minutes until lightly browned.

3. Stir in ranch seasoning and coat chicken.

4. Add uncooked penne and chicken broth. Bring to boil.

5. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

6. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth.

7. Return bacon and add 1½ cups of cheddar cheese. Stir to combine.

8. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover 30 seconds, then turn off heat.

9. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Add a splash of extra broth if pasta looks dry.

For a veggie boost, stir in spinach at the end.

Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or smoked gouda for variety.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 540
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 690mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 105mg