Description

If you’re craving a cozy, quick dinner that’s both family-friendly and restaurant-quality, Crack Chicken Penne is your answer. This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is packed with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich sauce that clings to every bite of tender penne. Whether you’re in need of easy dinner ideas, hearty food ideas for picky eaters, or a comfort food recipe that doubles as a delicious leftover meal, this easy recipe checks every box. It’s ideal for weeknight meals or weekend indulgence, and sure to become a regular on your list of dinner ideas!

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

1 tablespoon olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried parsley

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 teaspoon salt

2 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

8 oz cream cheese, cubed

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.

2. Add olive oil to the bacon grease. Season diced chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, smoked paprika, and parsley. Sear until golden and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.

3. In the same pan, sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.

5. Stir in uncooked penne pasta. Bring to a boil, reduce to simmer, cover, and cook for 12–14 minutes until pasta is tender.

6. Add cream cheese and stir until melted. Mix in cheddar and Parmesan until smooth.

7. Return chicken and bacon to skillet. Stir well and simmer 2–3 minutes more.

8. Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

Make sure to cook pasta just until al dente to avoid it turning mushy.

Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before adding to help it melt smoothly.

Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating to restore creaminess.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 670
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 16g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 140mg

Keywords: crack chicken penne, easy dinner, one pot pasta, creamy chicken pasta, comfort food, dinner ideas, food ideas