Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta That’s Better Than Takeout Recipe

Introduction

This Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to beat your favorite takeout. Loaded with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a cheesy ranch sauce, it’s perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 8 oz Penne Pasta (can swap for any short pasta)
• 2 cups Chicken Broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 lb Chicken Breast (can use dark meat)
• 8 oz Cream Cheese (can substitute Neufchâtel or Greek yogurt)
• 1 package Ranch Seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder (fresh minced garlic can be used)
• 6 oz Bacon (can use turkey bacon)
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (can blend in white cheddar)
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (can use dried if fresh is unavailable)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes until it’s crispy.
2. Step 2: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized chunks and add them to the same pot. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until mostly cooked through.
3. Step 3: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and garlic powder over the chicken, stirring well to coat. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the penne pasta and pour in the chicken broth. Bring everything to a boil for 2–3 minutes.
5. Step 5: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring every 4–5 minutes.
6. Step 6: Once cooked, add the cream cheese in cubes and stir until it melts and forms a creamy sauce. Mix in the bacon and cheddar cheese.
7. Step 7: Top with additional cheddar cheese and heat on low or broil until melted.
8. Step 8: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter option, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt and turkey bacon for reduced fat.
• Use fresh minced garlic instead of garlic powder for more vibrant flavor.
• Try swapping penne for rotini or rigatoni for a different texture.
• Add a handful of chopped spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering for extra greens.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw the chicken completely before cooking to ensure even cooking and food safety.

Is it better to use homemade or store-bought ranch seasoning?

Both work well—homemade ranch seasoning lets you control the salt and spice levels, while store-bought is convenient and consistent. Choose based on your preference.

Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta That’s Better Than Takeout Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 130 reviews

• Author: Andria
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

This Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta is a deliciously rich and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy cheddar cheese sauce with ranch seasoning. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it’s quick to prepare and offers a flavorful alternative to takeout.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta and Broth

• 8 oz Penne Pasta (can swap for any short pasta)
• 2 cups Chicken Broth (homemade or store-bought)

Protein

• 1 lb Chicken Breast (can use dark meat)
• 6 oz Bacon (can use turkey bacon)

Dairy and Cheese

• 8 oz Cream Cheese (can substitute Neufchâtel or Greek yogurt)
• 1 cup Cheddar Cheese (can blend in white cheddar)

Seasonings and Herbs

• 1 pkg Ranch Seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder (fresh minced garlic can be used)
• 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (can use dried if fresh is unavailable)

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Instructions

1. Cook the bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium-high heat for 8–10 minutes until it’s crispy. This renders the bacon fat and builds flavor for the dish.
2. Add chicken: Cut the chicken breast into bite-sized chunks and add them to the same pot with the bacon fat. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until the chicken is mostly cooked through, stirring occasionally.
3. Season the chicken: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning and garlic powder over the chicken, stirring well to coat all pieces. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to allow the seasonings to infuse the chicken.
4. Add pasta and broth: Stir in the penne pasta, then pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it cook for 2–3 minutes to start softening the pasta.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for 15–20 minutes. Stir every 4–5 minutes to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The pasta will absorb the broth and become tender.
6. Add cream cheese and cheeses: Once the pasta is cooked, add the cream cheese in cubes and stir until it melts into a creamy sauce. Mix in the cooked bacon and cheddar cheese thoroughly for a rich, cheesy finish.
7. Finish and garnish: Top with additional cheddar cheese and heat on low or broil briefly until melted and bubbly. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve the pasta warm for maximum flavor and comfort.

Notes

• Use dark meat chicken if you prefer juicier, more flavorful bites.
• For a lighter option, substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt, but add it off the heat to avoid curdling.
• Homemade ranch seasoning can be used for a fresher taste and to control sodium levels.
• If using dried parsley, add it during the simmering step to enhance flavor instead of only as garnish.
• Keep stirring during simmer to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
• This dish reheats well but may thicken; add a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating if needed.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta, Chicken Pasta, Bacon Pasta, Cheddar Cheese Pasta, Easy Weeknight Dinner, Comfort Food, Ranch Seasoning Pasta