The Best Crack Chicken Penne Crock Pot Recipe: Easy, Creamy, and Flavor-Packed

Looking for a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-loaded dinner you can set and forget? This crack chicken penne crock pot recipe is your new go-to. Combining tender shredded chicken, savory ranch, crispy bacon, and melty cheese, all slow-cooked with penne pasta, it’s the ultimate comfort food that practically makes itself. Whether you’re feeding your family, meal prepping for the week, or showing off at a potluck, this recipe is both foolproof and crowd-pleasing.

Want to make it dairy-free? Need to avoid gluten? No problem—we’ve included ingredient swaps and pro tips to customize it for your dietary needs. Plus, it only takes a few pantry staples and a trusty slow cooker. Discover great ideas like our Dairy-Free Cream of Chicken Soup for substitutions and explore delicious spins on the classic recipe.

Let’s dive into what makes this dish so crave-worthy and how you can master it from your own kitchen.

Crack Chicken Penne Crock Pot 2025

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This crack chicken penne crock pot recipe is the ultimate creamy, cheesy, slow-cooked comfort food. Loaded with shredded chicken, ranch flavor, melty cheddar, and tender penne pasta, it’s a family favorite that cooks itself. Dairy-free and gluten-free options included.

• Author: Nia Yarden
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Dinner, Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 12 oz penne pasta (regular or gluten-free)

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix

• 8 oz cream cheese (or dairy-free substitute)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or dairy-free alternative)

• ½ cup cooked and crumbled bacon

• 1½ cups chicken broth (plus ½ cup extra when adding pasta)

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ¼ tsp black pepper

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Instructions

• Spray crock pot with non-stick spray.

• Place chicken breasts at the bottom.

• Sprinkle with ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.

• Cube cream cheese and spread evenly on top.

• Pour chicken broth around the sides (not over the cheese).

• Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

• Once cooked, shred the chicken in the pot.

• Stir in uncooked penne pasta and additional ½ cup broth.

• Cover and cook on HIGH for 20–30 minutes, or until pasta is tender.

• Stir in shredded cheddar and bacon. Let cook uncovered for 5 minutes to melt.

• Serve hot with sides like salad or garlic bread.

Notes

• For dairy-free: use plant-based cream cheese and cheese shreds.

• To freeze: undercook pasta slightly, cool fully, and store in airtight containers.

• For Instant Pot version: Pressure cook chicken + broth + cream cheese for 15 minutes. Stir in cooked pasta and cheese.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1½ cups
• Calories: 560 kcal
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 950 mg
• Fat: 37 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 32 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 34 g
• Cholesterol: 115 mg

What is Crack Chicken Penne Crock Pot Recipe?

What makes “crack chicken” so addictive?

“Crack chicken” isn’t just a catchy name—it’s earned its status as an all-time favorite comfort food. The signature blend of cream cheese, shredded chicken, ranch seasoning, bacon, and melty cheddar forms a creamy, savory, and tangy flavor explosion that’s just downright irresistible.

The name comes from the fact that people keep coming back for more—it’s just that good. When you combine it with pasta, especially penne, you turn this addictive mix into a one-dish dinner that satisfies even the pickiest eaters.

It’s also incredibly versatile. You can serve crack chicken on sandwiches, rice, or potatoes, but pairing it with penne pasta and letting it simmer in a crock pot creates a hearty, homey meal that feels like a warm hug.

Why penne and crock pot are the perfect combo for comfort food

Why penne? Because it holds sauce like a champ. The tube shape and ridged texture catch every bit of the creamy ranch and cheese blend, delivering flavor in every bite. Unlike other pastas, penne doesn’t fall apart easily, making it perfect for slow cooking.

The crock pot (slow cooker) method works magic here. Instead of babysitting your stove, you just dump your ingredients, set the time, and walk away. The long, slow heat allows flavors to develop deeply, giving you juicy chicken and fully infused pasta without lifting a finger.

And when you’re short on time? Just prep everything in the morning and come home to dinner that’s ready to serve.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Crock Pot Ranch Chicken Sandwiches for another slow-cooked classic with ranch goodness.

Ingredients Needed for Crock Pot Crack Chicken Penne

Main ingredients breakdown (chicken, penne, cheeses, ranch, etc.)

To make the most mouthwatering crack chicken penne crock pot dish, you’ll need simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s what to gather before you get started:

For the richest, most indulgent version, don’t skimp on the cheese and bacon. But if you’re watching calories, you can lighten it up with low-fat options.

Don’t miss our Dairy-Free Buffalo Chicken Dip for more creamy, cheesy ideas made without dairy.

Dairy-free and gluten-free ingredient substitutions

Want to make it dairy-free or gluten-free? Totally doable—and still delicious.

Dairy-Free Swaps:

• Cream Cheese → Use plant-based cream cheese (like Kite Hill or Tofutti)
• Cheddar Cheese → Try Daiya cheddar-style shreds or Follow Your Heart
• Ranch Mix → Make your own using dried herbs and our Dairy-Free Ranch Dressing

Gluten-Free Options:

• Use gluten-free penne made from brown rice, quinoa, or chickpeas (Barilla GF or Banza are great brands)
• Confirm your ranch mix is gluten-free or make a homemade blend

Here’s a quick substitution table:

These adjustments make the recipe friendly for those with lactose intolerance or celiac disease without sacrificing flavor.

Discover great ideas like our Dairy-Free Mac and Cheese if you’re exploring more cheesy, dairy-free comfort food.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Crack Chicken Penne in a Crock Pot

How to prep and layer ingredients for best results

Making crack chicken penne in your crock pot is as simple as dump, layer, and cook. But to get restaurant-quality results, the order of operations matters. Here’s your foolproof method:

1. Spray or grease your crock pot with a little oil or non-stick spray.
2. Place chicken breasts in the bottom of the pot.
3. Sprinkle ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper over the chicken.
4. Add cubed cream cheese directly on top (spread evenly).
5. Pour in chicken broth around the edges—not over the cheese—to help distribute moisture evenly.
6. Cover with the lid and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
7. Shred the chicken directly in the crock pot using two forks.
8. Stir in uncooked penne pasta and ½ cup additional broth if needed.
9. Cover again and cook for 20–30 more minutes on HIGH until pasta is al dente.
10. Stir in cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, then cook uncovered for 5 more minutes until everything is melted and creamy.

Cooking time, stirring frequency, and safety tips

Timing and safety matter—especially when cooking pasta in a crock pot. Here’s how to get it right:

• Avoid overcooking the pasta. Add it only after the chicken has been shredded, and keep a close eye.
• Stir sparingly before pasta is added. Overstirring earlier can make the cream cheese break down and separate.
• Use a meat thermometer to make sure chicken hits an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before shredding.
• If the sauce thickens too much after cooking, you can thin it out with a splash of milk or broth.
• For food safety, don’t let cooked ingredients sit in the crock pot for hours on warm. Refrigerate within 2 hours after serving.

Check out our Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie for another cozy crock pot classic with smart prep techniques.

Tips for Making the Best Creamy Crack Chicken Penne

How to avoid dry or mushy pasta in the crock pot

One of the trickiest parts of making pasta in a slow cooker? Getting the texture just right. But with a few smart strategies, you can avoid both dry clumps and mushy messes.

Top tips for pasta perfection:

• Always add the penne last. Let the chicken fully cook and shred it before stirring in uncooked pasta.
• Check early. Start checking your pasta after 20 minutes. Depending on your slow cooker, it might be done faster.
• Use enough liquid. Add an extra ½ to 1 cup of broth with the pasta to prevent drying out.
• Use regular (not whole wheat or quick-cook) penne. These hold up best to slow cooking.
• Stir gently only once. Too much stirring breaks the pasta apart and releases excess starch.

Want to try another creamy, pasta-based idea that doesn’t skimp on texture? Don’t miss our Dairy-Free Mac and Cheese.

Flavor enhancers and seasoning tricks

Even with just ranch and cheese, crack chicken penne crock pot is packed with flavor. But if you want to take it to the next level, here are some game-changing additions:

These little tweaks go a long way in enhancing your dish without overpowering the signature crack chicken flavor. And yes, you can still make these swaps dairy-free using our Dairy-Free Ranch Dressing.

Variations of Crack Chicken Penne Crock Pot Recipe

Buffalo-style, BBQ-style, and veggie-packed versions

Tired of the same old flavor? Good news—this dish is crazy easy to customize. You can switch up sauces, add veggies, or lean into bold new tastes without losing the creamy, comforting core of crack chicken.

Here are three crowd-favorite variations:

1. Buffalo Crack Chicken Penne

Love a little heat? Add ½ cup of buffalo wing sauce after shredding the chicken. Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack or blue cheese crumbles (or use a dairy-free blue cheese alternative). This twist is a hit at tailgates and game nights.

2. BBQ Crack Chicken Penne

Want smoky, sweet Southern flair? Mix in ½ cup of your favorite BBQ sauce instead of ranch mix. Add a sprinkle of smoked gouda or pepper jack cheese, then top with crispy fried onions for a flavor bomb.

3. Veggie-Packed Crack Chicken Pasta

For a more balanced meal, add frozen peas, broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms in the final 30 minutes of cooking. These blend beautifully with the creamy base and help lighten the dish without watering it down.

Each variation works well with plant-based dairy alternatives, too—just use the tips in Dairy-Free Cream of Chicken Soup to keep it allergen-friendly.

Low-carb or keto-friendly adaptations

Want to enjoy the flavor without the carbs? No problem. Here’s how to adapt your crack chicken penne crock pot for keto and low-carb lifestyles:

To avoid soggy zucchini noodles, cook them separately, then stir them in just before serving. This way, they keep their texture and absorb the creamy sauce like a sponge.

Trying to go light but rich in taste? Don’t miss our Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie for a satisfying, low-carb comfort classic.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Best side dishes for crack chicken penne

This dish is rich, creamy, and filling—but the right sides can round it out beautifully. Whether you’re serving a crowd or keeping it simple on a weeknight, here are the top side dishes that complement crack chicken penne crock pot:

1. Steamed or Roasted Veggies

• Broccoli, green beans, carrots, or Brussels sprouts add freshness and crunch.
• Roasting with garlic and olive oil gives depth without competing with the pasta.

2. Simple Green Salad

• A crisp romaine or spinach salad with vinaigrette balances the creamy richness.
• Add grape tomatoes, cucumbers, or shredded carrots for color and crunch.

3. Garlic Bread or Rolls

• For carb-lovers, buttery garlic bread is the perfect scoop-and-swipe companion.
• Use gluten-free bread options for dietary flexibility.

4. Coleslaw or Cabbage Slaw

• A tangy, vinegar-based slaw cuts through the heavy sauce and refreshes the palate.

5. Fruit Salad

• A bowl of chilled mixed berries or melon balances the savory with a sweet finish.

Pro tip: Keep your side dishes light and crisp to contrast with the creamy main. This keeps your meal satisfying without feeling too heavy.

Family dinner, meal prep, or potluck ideas

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is for different occasions.

For Family Dinners:

• Serve it in a big bowl, family-style. Let everyone top their plate with extra bacon or cheese.
• Add a DIY salad bar on the side for extra greens.

For Meal Prep:

• Portion leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Add steamed veggies for a balanced, grab-and-go lunch.

For Potlucks or Parties:

• Bring it straight in the slow cooker and use the “keep warm” setting.
• Offer optional toppings like green onions, crushed red pepper, or dairy-free parmesan.

Don’t miss our Dairy-Free Buffalo Chicken Dip for another hit recipe that works beautifully for crowds.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Fridge vs freezer storage tips

Cooked too much? Good news—crack chicken penne crock pot stores really well and reheats like a dream when done right.

Here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful:

In the Fridge:

• Store in an airtight container and refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.
• Keeps well for up to 4 days.
• To retain creaminess, add a splash of milk, broth, or dairy-free alternative when reheating.

In the Freezer:

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags—flatten for quicker thawing.
• Use within 2 months for best flavor and texture.
• Note: Pasta can get a little soft when frozen. For best results, slightly undercook the pasta if you plan to freeze.

To avoid waste and maintain that creamy texture, make use of labeled containers and don’t overload with cheese if freezing. Want freezer-friendly alternatives? Our Dairy-Free Cream of Chicken Soup is an excellent base that holds up beautifully in the freezer.

Best ways to reheat without drying out the pasta

Reheating creamy pasta can be tricky—it’s easy to go from perfect to gummy. Here’s how to get it just right:

Microwave (for speed):

1. Add a tablespoon of milk or broth per serving.
2. Cover loosely with a lid or paper towel.
3. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Stovetop (for even heating):

1. Place pasta in a nonstick skillet or saucepan.
2. Add a splash of liquid (milk, broth, or dairy-free milk).
3. Warm over medium heat, stirring gently until smooth and heated through.

Oven (for family portions):

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Spread pasta in a baking dish, add a few tablespoons of liquid, and cover with foil.
3. Bake for 15–20 minutes, then stir and serve.

Important tip: Avoid reheating multiple times. Instead, reheat only what you plan to eat to preserve flavor and food safety.

Looking for inspiration? Try freezing a batch of our Dairy-Free Ranch Dressing in ice cube trays—perfect to stir into reheated pasta for a fresh flavor boost.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking pasta in slow cookers

One of the most frequent complaints with crack chicken penne crock pot recipes? Mushy or gummy pasta. And it almost always comes down to timing.

Here’s how to avoid this common pitfall:

• Don’t add pasta too early. Pasta only needs 20–30 minutes on high once the chicken is fully cooked and shredded.
• Watch closely during that final stretch. Some slow cookers run hot, and pasta can go from al dente to mush fast.
• Use regular penne. Avoid quick-cook or whole-wheat varieties unless you’re cooking separately and stirring them in last.
• If you’re meal prepping, consider cooking the pasta separately and combining just before serving.

Cheese curdling or separating – how to prevent it

Another frustrating issue? You open the crock pot and find oily, broken cheese instead of smooth, creamy sauce. Don’t worry—it’s preventable.

Here’s what causes it and how to fix it:

• High heat too early. Cheese doesn’t like direct or prolonged high heat. Use low heat for most of the cook time.
• Improper layering. Always place cream cheese on top of the chicken—not at the bottom where it will burn.
• No stirring early on. Let everything melt and blend naturally. Stir only after the chicken is cooked and shredded.
• Low-moisture cheese works best. Use pre-shredded cheddar (or dairy-free alternatives), and avoid soft cheeses like brie or ricotta.
• If using vegan cheese, choose meltable varieties like Daiya or Follow Your Heart that withstand crock pot temperatures.

Still worried about sauce issues? Discover great ideas like our Dairy-Free Cream of Chicken Soup, which offers a more stable creamy base even without dairy.

Avoiding these simple missteps can turn your slow cooker from a gamble into a guarantee of deliciousness.

Nutrition Information & Dietary Tips

Calorie and macro breakdown

Wondering if this rich and creamy dish fits your nutritional goals? Here’s a breakdown for a standard serving (about 1.5 cups) of crack chicken penne crock pot, based on traditional ingredients:

Keep in mind: The actual numbers vary based on ingredient brands, cheese types, and pasta quantity. You can lighten it up or bulk it up depending on your goals.

Making it fit special diets (dairy-free, gluten-free, low sodium)

You don’t have to give up creamy comfort food to meet your health goals. With a few smart swaps, crack chicken penne crock pot can fit many dietary plans.

Dairy-Free Adjustments:

• Use dairy-free cream cheese (like Kite Hill or Tofutti).
• Substitute plant-based cheddar-style shreds for traditional cheese.
• Make your own ranch with coconut milk and herbs—try our Dairy-Free Ranch Dressing.

Gluten-Free Options:

• Replace traditional penne with gluten-free penne (rice, corn, or lentil-based).
• Be sure your ranch seasoning is certified gluten-free or homemade.

Low-Sodium Approach:

• Use low-sodium chicken broth.
• Make homemade ranch seasoning to control salt levels.
• Use less cheese or swap for low-sodium dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Looking for more wholesome comfort dishes? Don’t miss our Dairy-Free Chicken Pot Pie—another great choice with smart ingredient upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The crack chicken penne crock pot recipe brings together everything we crave in a comforting dinner—rich creaminess, savory chicken, cheesy goodness, and hands-free cooking. Whether you keep it classic or make it dairy-free, low-carb, or buffalo-style, this recipe is endlessly flexible and guaranteed to please.

From weeknight dinners to freezer meals and potlucks, it delivers big flavor with minimal effort. So next time you’re looking for something creamy, cozy, and downright delicious, this slow-cooked pasta dish should be at the top of your list.

Don’t miss our Crock Pot Ranch Chicken Sandwiches if you’re craving more ranch-infused slow cooker magic.

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