Description
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish packed with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a ranch-flavored sauce. This indulgent meal is a crowd-pleaser that’s quick to make and perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 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
- ¾ cup bacon, cooked and chopped
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
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Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
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Make the Sauce: Add the ranch seasoning mix, cream cheese, chicken broth, and heavy cream to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. Bring to a simmer.
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Add the Chicken and Bacon: Stir in the shredded chicken, sharp cheddar cheese, and cooked bacon. Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is fully melted and everything is well combined.
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Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Let everything heat through for a couple of minutes.
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Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken makes this dish even easier, but any cooked chicken works well.
- You can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon if you prefer a lighter option.
- For extra creaminess, add a little more cream cheese or heavy cream.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Crack chicken, pasta, ranch pasta, cheesy pasta, chicken penne, bacon pasta, creamy pasta