Description
Crack Chicken Penne is a rich, creamy, and indulgent pasta dish that combines tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a velvety ranch-flavored cheese sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, this recipe is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent.
- Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix, stirring until smooth.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce is well combined.
- Stir in the shredded chicken, half of the bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to mix until the cheese is melted.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce.
- Garnish with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Cook and shred the chicken and bacon ahead of time for quicker meal prep.
- Customizations: Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas for extra nutrients.
- Cheese Tip: Grate your own cheddar cheese for a smoother sauce, as pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
- Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, substitute the pasta with gluten-free penne. To reduce calories, use low-fat cream cheese and turkey bacon.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Chicken
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 680 kcal