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Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 142 reviews

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese all tossed in a rich ranch and cream cheese sauce. This comforting recipe is quick to prepare and perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 lb penne pasta

Chicken and Bacon

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled

Sauce

  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (approx. 1 oz)
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set it aside for later use.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and chicken broth. Stir continuously until the mixture becomes smooth and creamy, ensuring the cream cheese is fully melted into the sauce.
  3. Add Chicken and Bacon: Stir the shredded cooked chicken and crumbled cooked bacon into the creamy sauce in the skillet, mixing well to evenly combine all ingredients.
  4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently stir to coat the pasta thoroughly with the creamy chicken and bacon sauce.
  5. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta in the skillet. Cover the skillet and allow the cheese to melt, about 3-5 minutes, creating a gooey cheesy topping.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and garnish the dish with freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color and mild onion flavor. Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • For extra creaminess, use full-fat cream cheese and cheddar cheese.
  • You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • To add vegetables, consider stirring in steamed broccoli or peas before adding the cheese.
  • If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.

Keywords: crack chicken penne, creamy chicken pasta, ranch chicken pasta, cheesy penne recipe, bacon pasta dish

Find it online: https://busyrecipe.com/crack-chicken-penne-recipe/