This Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish loaded with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a burst of ranch flavor that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for a family dinner or a potluck, this meal comes together quickly and is sure to impress with its rich and comforting flavors.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
If you love creamy pasta dishes that are both hearty and satisfying, then this Crack Chicken Penne is for you! With a delightful combination of ingredients, including rich cream cheese, savory ranch seasoning, and crispy bacon, this dish blurs the lines between pasta and comfort food. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages and takes only about 35 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making it perfect for meal prep!
Introduction
Pasta is one of the most universally loved foods, and when you introduce a creamy, cheesy sauce along with some succulent chicken and crispy bacon, it transforms into something extraordinary. This Crack Chicken Penne is not just any pasta; it combines the delightful taste of ranch dressing with the luscious texture of cream cheese, resulting in a dish that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to make. In this recipe, we will guide you through the steps to create this amazing dish while sharing tips and variations that allow you to customize it to your liking. The best part? You will have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 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 chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook Penne Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside, but do not rinse it, as you want the starch to remain for the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes. Take care not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix to the skillet. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined, allowing the cream cheese to melt and incorporate into the sauce.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream while stirring continuously. Keep stirring until the sauce is rich and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little more chicken broth or cream.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Bacon
Add the shredded cooked chicken, half of the chopped bacon, and the shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the skillet. Mix thoroughly until the cheese melts and the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the sauce.
Step 6: Mix with Penne
Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta, ensuring that each piece is coated in the creamy chicken mixture. Cook together for an additional 2–3 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Serve the Crack Chicken Penne hot, garnished with the remaining bacon and freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Cooking Notes:
To make the dish even richer, consider adding more cheese or incorporating sautéed vegetables like spinach or broccoli. The ranch seasoning can also be adjusted according to your taste preference; feel free to experiment with spices or add a little cayenne pepper for heat.
Suggestions for Presentation:
For an elegant presentation, serve the Crack Chicken Penne in individual bowls or plates. Drizzle a little extra cream over the top, sprinkle with extra cheese, and add a few sprigs of parsley. Pair with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
Tips:
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened before adding to the pan; this makes it easier to incorporate into the sauce.
- For added flavor, use homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- If you’re in a hurry, you can use rotisserie chicken for the shredded chicken to save time.
Time Details:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 689 kcal
- Protein: 39 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
Conclusion
The Crack Chicken Penne is not only straightforward to prepare but also deliciously satisfying. Its creamy texture, coupled with the flavors of ranch and bacon, makes it an unbeatable combination for any pasta lover. Whether you are serving it for a family meal or at a get-together with friends, this dish will surely earn rave reviews. So roll your sleeves up, gather your ingredients, and indulge in this wonderfully comforting pasta meal. You won’t regret it!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A1: Yes! You can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or a selection of your favorite vegetables, and omit the bacon for a delicious vegetarian option.
Q2: What can I serve with Crack Chicken Penne?
A2: This dish pairs well with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent drying out.
Q4: Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne?
A4: Yes, you can freeze it, but it’s best to do so without the garnishes. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q5: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A5: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the penne pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini, fusilli, or even zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a lower-carb option.
