Can I make crack chicken penne in an Instant Pot instead of a Crock Pot?

Yes, you absolutely can! The Instant Pot speeds things up while still delivering creamy results. Simply pressure cook the chicken, broth, ranch, and cream cheese on high for 15 minutes , then quick-release. Shred the chicken, switch to sauté mode, and stir in uncooked penne. Cook for about 6–8 minutes , stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender. Finish with shredded cheese and bacon. The only caution? Instant Pots run hot, so watch the pasta closely to avoid overcooking.

How do I make dairy-free crack chicken pasta?

To make a dairy-free version of crack chicken penne, replace the following: Cream cheese → use vegan alternatives like Kite Hill or Tofutti. Cheddar cheese → use plant-based cheddar-style shreds from Daiya or Violife. Ranch seasoning → make your own dairy-free version using herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of nutritional yeast. Also, check out our full recipe for Dairy-Free Ranch Dressing it’s a game-changer in this dish.

Can I freeze leftovers of crack chicken penne crock pot?

Yes, but there’s a trick to it. You can freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 months . However, since pasta can get soft when thawed, we recommend: Slightly undercooking the pasta if you know you’ll freeze it. Freezing in individual portions for easier reheating. Reheating gently with a bit of broth or dairy-free milk to bring back creaminess. If you plan to freeze it often, use gluten-free pasta alternatives like chickpea pasta for better texture retention.

The Best Crack Chicken Penne Crock Pot Recipe 2025

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

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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

Find it online: https://www.nytrecipe.com/crack-chicken-penne-crock-pot/