Creamy Crack Chicken Penne (Better Than Takeout!)

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly delicious dish that brings together tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a rich ranch-seasoned sauce. This lightened-up version keeps all the classic flavors you love while using smart swaps to make it more balanced. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a meal-prep favorite, this dish is sure to become a household staple!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich & Creamy: A velvety sauce coats every bite of pasta, making it pure comfort food.
Protein-Packed: Lean chicken and Greek yogurt provide a satisfying, balanced meal.
Quick & Easy: Minimal prep and a simple one-pot method make it perfect for busy nights.
Family-Friendly: A meal the whole family will love—kids and adults alike!

Ingredients

For the Dish:

• 8 oz whole wheat penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1 1/2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup fat-free Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup reduced-fat shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup light cream cheese
• 1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions.
• Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken:

• In a large skillet over medium heat, spray with nonstick cooking spray and add the diced chicken.
• Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
• Cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce:

• In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
• Stir in Greek yogurt, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning mix, whisking until smooth.
• Reduce heat and let the sauce thicken for 3–4 minutes.

Combine Everything:

• Add the cooked pasta and chicken into the skillet.
• Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and mix until everything is well coated.

Serve & Garnish:

• Let the dish sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
• Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 280
• Carbs: 28g
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g

Tips for Success

• Use Whole Wheat Pasta: It adds fiber and keeps the dish more balanced.
• Adjust the Creaminess: Add a splash of milk if the sauce gets too thick.
• Boost the Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.

Why This Recipe Works

• Creamy Yet Light: Greek yogurt and light cream cheese create a rich sauce without heavy calories.
• Savory & Smoky: The combination of turkey bacon, ranch seasoning, and paprika adds layers of flavor.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup and more convenience for busy weeknights.

Crack Chicken Penne is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors, all in a lighter yet satisfying dish. With tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a rich ranch-infused sauce, it’s a meal that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether for meal prep or a comforting dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit!