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Crack Chicken Penne Bake Flavorful and Comforting Meal

by on June 28, 2025

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Looking for a cozy meal that feeds the whole family? Try my Crack Chicken Penne Bake! This dish combines creamy goodness with tender chicken and cheesy goodness. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy weeknights. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll whip up a comforting meal in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!

To make a delicious Crack Chicken Penne Bake, you need the following ingredients: - 12 oz penne pasta - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - ½ cup ranch dressing - 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred) - 1 cup frozen broccoli florets, thawed and chopped - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and black pepper to taste - ½ cup crispy fried onions - Fresh parsley, finely chopped Each ingredient plays a key role in creating this rich dish. The penne pasta serves as the heart of the bake, giving it structure. I love using shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick option. Cream cheese adds creaminess, while ranch dressing brings a tangy kick. The chicken broth keeps the dish moist. Broccoli adds a nice texture and color. Garlic and onion powders enhance the flavor without overpowering it. Finally, crispy fried onions add crunch and visual appeal, while parsley brightens everything up. Gather everything before you start cooking. Trust me, this will make your cooking experience smooth and fun! {{ingredient_image_2}} - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - Prepare baking dish with cooking spray or oil. - Boil salted water and cook penne as per package instructions. - Drain and set pasta aside. - Combine chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, broth, garlic and onion powders, salt, and pepper. - Blend until smooth and creamy. - Fold in cooked penne and broccoli. - Spread mixture into the baking dish. - Add cheddar cheese and crispy fried onions on top. - Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. - Rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. - Garnish with fresh parsley. Each step builds flavor and texture. The creamy mix combined with the penne creates a rich dish. Baking it allows the cheese to melt and become golden. The crispy onions add a lovely crunch. Enjoy this warm meal fresh from the oven! To cook penne pasta al dente, start with salted water. The salt adds flavor. Boil the water before adding the pasta. Cook the penne for about 10-12 minutes. Check the package for specific times. Taste a piece to see if it's firm but not hard. Drain the pasta in a colander and do not rinse it. Rinsing will wash away the starch that helps the sauce stick. For this recipe, you can use rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts. Rotisserie chicken is easy and packed with flavor. If you use cooked chicken breasts, season them well before cooking. To shred the chicken, use two forks. Gently pull the meat apart until it is in small pieces. This helps it mix well with the sauce. To boost flavor, think about adding spices and herbs. Garlic powder and onion powder are great choices. You can also add dried basil or parsley for more taste. If you want cream cheese to be extra smooth, let it sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps it blend into the sauce more easily. Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and convenient option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves time on cooking. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile. Make it Ahead: This dish can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve! Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. {{image_4}} You can add more veggies to your Crack Chicken Penne Bake. Spinach is a great choice. It wilts down nicely and adds color. Bell peppers also work well. They bring sweetness and crunch. You can even try zucchini or cherry tomatoes. Just chop them up and mix them in. More veggies make it healthier and tastier. If you want to switch up the protein, consider using turkey. Ground turkey or shredded turkey both fit nicely. For a plant-based option, tofu is great too. Just press it to remove extra water before cooking. You can also use chickpeas for a hearty twist. Each protein brings a unique flavor to the dish. Cheese can change the whole taste of the bake. Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella for a milder flavor. Gouda adds a nice smoky taste. You might also like pepper jack for a spicy kick. Feta cheese gives a tangy twist. Mixing cheeses can create a fun, new flavor profile. Experiment and find what you love best! To store leftover Crack Chicken Penne Bake, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Ensure you cover it well to keep it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in the oven or microwave. If you want to freeze the bake, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for about 2 to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, bake it at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. In the fridge, your Crack Chicken Penne Bake lasts for about 3 days. If frozen, it can last for 2 to 3 months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Proper storage helps keep your meal tasty and safe. Yes, you can prep this dish in advance. You can cook the pasta and mix the creamy chicken base. Store them separately in the fridge for up to two days. When ready, combine them and bake as directed. This saves time during busy days. I love serving this meal with a light green salad. It adds a fresh crunch. Garlic bread also pairs well, adding warmth and flavor. Another option is steamed veggies, which brighten the plate and boost nutrition. To lighten this dish, use low-fat cream cheese. Swap regular ranch dressing for a lower-calorie version. You could add more veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, to boost nutrients. Using less cheese or a blend of cheeses can also help cut calories. Yes, whole grain penne is a great choice! It adds fiber and nutrients. The taste is slightly nuttier but blends well with the creamy sauce. This option makes the dish a bit healthier without losing flavor. This recipe for Crack Chicken Penne Bake blends creamy flavors with tender chicken and pasta. You learned how to prepare the dish step-by-step, from cooking the penne to baking it perfectly. Remember, you can customize it with different veggies or proteins. Lastly, store leftovers properly for future meals. Enjoy making this dish for your friends and family!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Comfort Food at Its Finest: This Cheesy Crack Chicken Penne Bake combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and pasta, making it the ultimate comfort food that everyone will love.
  2. Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. Just mix, bake, and serve!
  3. Versatile Ingredients: Using rotisserie chicken and frozen broccoli makes this dish not only easy but also a great way to use up leftovers and pantry staples.
  4. Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or potlucks.

Ingredients

To make a delicious Crack Chicken Penne Bake, you need the following ingredients:

– 12 oz penne pasta

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 1 cup cream cheese, softened

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– ½ cup ranch dressing

– 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)

– 1 cup frozen broccoli florets, thawed and chopped

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– ½ cup crispy fried onions

– Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating this rich dish. The penne pasta serves as the heart of the bake, giving it structure. I love using shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick option. Cream cheese adds creaminess, while ranch dressing brings a tangy kick. The chicken broth keeps the dish moist. Broccoli adds a nice texture and color. Garlic and onion powders enhance the flavor without overpowering it. Finally, crispy fried onions add crunch and visual appeal, while parsley brightens everything up.

Gather everything before you start cooking. Trust me, this will make your cooking experience smooth and fun!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepping the Oven and Baking Dish

– Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

– Prepare baking dish with cooking spray or oil.

Cooking the Penne Pasta

– Boil salted water and cook penne as per package instructions.

– Drain and set pasta aside.

Mixing the Creamy Chicken Base

– Combine chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, broth, garlic and onion powders, salt, and pepper.

– Blend until smooth and creamy.

Assembling the Bake

– Fold in cooked penne and broccoli.

– Spread mixture into the baking dish.

Topping and Baking

– Add cheddar cheese and crispy fried onions on top.

– Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serving the Dish

– Rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing.

– Garnish with fresh parsley.

Each step builds flavor and texture. The creamy mix combined with the penne creates a rich dish. Baking it allows the cheese to melt and become golden. The crispy onions add a lovely crunch. Enjoy this warm meal fresh from the oven!

Tips & Tricks

How to Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pasta

To cook penne pasta al dente, start with salted water. The salt adds flavor. Boil the water before adding the pasta. Cook the penne for about 10-12 minutes. Check the package for specific times. Taste a piece to see if it’s firm but not hard. Drain the pasta in a colander and do not rinse it. Rinsing will wash away the starch that helps the sauce stick.

Best Chicken Options

For this recipe, you can use rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts. Rotisserie chicken is easy and packed with flavor. If you use cooked chicken breasts, season them well before cooking. To shred the chicken, use two forks. Gently pull the meat apart until it is in small pieces. This helps it mix well with the sauce.

Flavor Enhancements

To boost flavor, think about adding spices and herbs. Garlic powder and onion powder are great choices. You can also add dried basil or parsley for more taste. If you want cream cheese to be extra smooth, let it sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps it blend into the sauce more easily.

Pro Tips

  1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and convenient option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves time on cooking.
  2. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.
  3. Make it Ahead: This dish can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!
  4. Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.

Variations

Vegetable Additions

You can add more veggies to your Crack Chicken Penne Bake. Spinach is a great choice. It wilts down nicely and adds color. Bell peppers also work well. They bring sweetness and crunch. You can even try zucchini or cherry tomatoes. Just chop them up and mix them in. More veggies make it healthier and tastier.

Protein Alternatives

If you want to switch up the protein, consider using turkey. Ground turkey or shredded turkey both fit nicely. For a plant-based option, tofu is great too. Just press it to remove extra water before cooking. You can also use chickpeas for a hearty twist. Each protein brings a unique flavor to the dish.

Different Cheese Options

Cheese can change the whole taste of the bake. Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella for a milder flavor. Gouda adds a nice smoky taste. You might also like pepper jack for a spicy kick. Feta cheese gives a tangy twist. Mixing cheeses can create a fun, new flavor profile. Experiment and find what you love best!

Storage Info

Refrigerating Leftovers

To store leftover Crack Chicken Penne Bake, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Ensure you cover it well to keep it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to freeze the bake, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for about 2 to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, bake it at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, your Crack Chicken Penne Bake lasts for about 3 days. If frozen, it can last for 2 to 3 months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Proper storage helps keep your meal tasty and safe.

FAQs

Can I make Crack Chicken Penne Bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep this dish in advance. You can cook the pasta and mix the creamy chicken base. Store them separately in the fridge for up to two days. When ready, combine them and bake as directed. This saves time during busy days.

What can I serve with Crack Chicken Penne Bake?

I love serving this meal with a light green salad. It adds a fresh crunch. Garlic bread also pairs well, adding warmth and flavor. Another option is steamed veggies, which brighten the plate and boost nutrition.

How can I make it healthier?

To lighten this dish, use low-fat cream cheese. Swap regular ranch dressing for a lower-calorie version. You could add more veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, to boost nutrients. Using less cheese or a blend of cheeses can also help cut calories.

Can I use whole grain penne?

Yes, whole grain penne is a great choice! It adds fiber and nutrients. The taste is slightly nuttier but blends well with the creamy sauce. This option makes the dish a bit healthier without losing flavor.

This recipe for Crack Chicken Penne Bake blends creamy flavors with tender chicken and pasta. You learned how to prepare the dish step-by-step, from cooking the penne to baking it perfectly. Remember, you can customize it with different veggies or proteins. Lastly, store leftovers properly for future meals. Enjoy making this dish for your friends and famil

To make a delicious Crack Chicken Penne Bake, you need the following ingredients: - 12 oz penne pasta - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 1 cup cream cheese, softened - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - ½ cup ranch dressing - 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred) - 1 cup frozen broccoli florets, thawed and chopped - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and black pepper to taste - ½ cup crispy fried onions - Fresh parsley, finely chopped Each ingredient plays a key role in creating this rich dish. The penne pasta serves as the heart of the bake, giving it structure. I love using shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick option. Cream cheese adds creaminess, while ranch dressing brings a tangy kick. The chicken broth keeps the dish moist. Broccoli adds a nice texture and color. Garlic and onion powders enhance the flavor without overpowering it. Finally, crispy fried onions add crunch and visual appeal, while parsley brightens everything up. Gather everything before you start cooking. Trust me, this will make your cooking experience smooth and fun! {{ingredient_image_2}} - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - Prepare baking dish with cooking spray or oil. - Boil salted water and cook penne as per package instructions. - Drain and set pasta aside. - Combine chicken, cream cheese, ranch dressing, broth, garlic and onion powders, salt, and pepper. - Blend until smooth and creamy. - Fold in cooked penne and broccoli. - Spread mixture into the baking dish. - Add cheddar cheese and crispy fried onions on top. - Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. - Rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. - Garnish with fresh parsley. Each step builds flavor and texture. The creamy mix combined with the penne creates a rich dish. Baking it allows the cheese to melt and become golden. The crispy onions add a lovely crunch. Enjoy this warm meal fresh from the oven! To cook penne pasta al dente, start with salted water. The salt adds flavor. Boil the water before adding the pasta. Cook the penne for about 10-12 minutes. Check the package for specific times. Taste a piece to see if it's firm but not hard. Drain the pasta in a colander and do not rinse it. Rinsing will wash away the starch that helps the sauce stick. For this recipe, you can use rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breasts. Rotisserie chicken is easy and packed with flavor. If you use cooked chicken breasts, season them well before cooking. To shred the chicken, use two forks. Gently pull the meat apart until it is in small pieces. This helps it mix well with the sauce. To boost flavor, think about adding spices and herbs. Garlic powder and onion powder are great choices. You can also add dried basil or parsley for more taste. If you want cream cheese to be extra smooth, let it sit at room temperature before mixing. This helps it blend into the sauce more easily. Pro Tips Use Rotisserie Chicken: For a quick and convenient option, use store-bought rotisserie chicken. It adds flavor and saves time on cooking. Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile. Make it Ahead: This dish can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve! Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color. {{image_4}} You can add more veggies to your Crack Chicken Penne Bake. Spinach is a great choice. It wilts down nicely and adds color. Bell peppers also work well. They bring sweetness and crunch. You can even try zucchini or cherry tomatoes. Just chop them up and mix them in. More veggies make it healthier and tastier. If you want to switch up the protein, consider using turkey. Ground turkey or shredded turkey both fit nicely. For a plant-based option, tofu is great too. Just press it to remove extra water before cooking. You can also use chickpeas for a hearty twist. Each protein brings a unique flavor to the dish. Cheese can change the whole taste of the bake. Instead of cheddar, try mozzarella for a milder flavor. Gouda adds a nice smoky taste. You might also like pepper jack for a spicy kick. Feta cheese gives a tangy twist. Mixing cheeses can create a fun, new flavor profile. Experiment and find what you love best! To store leftover Crack Chicken Penne Bake, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Ensure you cover it well to keep it fresh. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat it in the oven or microwave. If you want to freeze the bake, use a freezer-safe container. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for about 2 to 3 months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge. Then, bake it at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. In the fridge, your Crack Chicken Penne Bake lasts for about 3 days. If frozen, it can last for 2 to 3 months. Always check for any signs of spoilage before eating. Proper storage helps keep your meal tasty and safe. Yes, you can prep this dish in advance. You can cook the pasta and mix the creamy chicken base. Store them separately in the fridge for up to two days. When ready, combine them and bake as directed. This saves time during busy days. I love serving this meal with a light green salad. It adds a fresh crunch. Garlic bread also pairs well, adding warmth and flavor. Another option is steamed veggies, which brighten the plate and boost nutrition. To lighten this dish, use low-fat cream cheese. Swap regular ranch dressing for a lower-calorie version. You could add more veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, to boost nutrients. Using less cheese or a blend of cheeses can also help cut calories. Yes, whole grain penne is a great choice! It adds fiber and nutrients. The taste is slightly nuttier but blends well with the creamy sauce. This option makes the dish a bit healthier without losing flavor. This recipe for Crack Chicken Penne Bake blends creamy flavors with tender chicken and pasta. You learned how to prepare the dish step-by-step, from cooking the penne to baking it perfectly. Remember, you can customize it with different veggies or proteins. Lastly, store leftovers properly for future meals. Enjoy making this dish for your friends and family!

Cheesy Crack Chicken Penne Bake

A creamy and cheesy pasta bake loaded with shredded chicken and broccoli, topped with crispy fried onions.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 0.5 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup frozen broccoli florets, thawed and chopped
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • 0.5 cup crispy fried onions
  • for garnish fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a large baking dish by lightly greasing it.
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  • Fold in the cooked penne pasta and thawed broccoli florets, ensuring they are evenly coated.
  • Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  • Sprinkle the top with shredded cheddar cheese and crispy fried onions.
  • Bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing into portions.
  • Garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

Serve directly from the baking dish for a rustic look or plate individual servings for a touch of elegance.
Keyword bake, cheesy, chicken, comfort food, pasta

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