Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

This Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy, and incredibly flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner! Imagine tender penne pasta tossed with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich and savory sauce with a hint of ranch flavor. This recipe is simple to make and delivers a satisfying and comforting meal that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Addictive: The combination of ranch seasoning, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy sauce creates a flavor explosion that’s simply irresistible.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is a breeze to prepare with just one pot and minimal prep time. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a flash.
• Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe with your favorite pasta shape or add different vegetables for a more complete meal.
• Kid-Friendly: This dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, even for picky eaters. The creamy sauce and cheesy flavors are sure to be a hit with everyone.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Bacon: Thick-cut bacon adds a smoky and salty flavor to the dish.
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
• Ranch seasoning mix: Adds a tangy and herbaceous flavor to the sauce.
• Penne pasta: A classic pasta shape that’s perfect for holding the creamy sauce. You can substitute with your favorite pasta variety.
• Chicken broth: Adds flavor and forms the base of the sauce.
• Cream cheese: Adds richness and creaminess to the sauce.
• Cheddar cheese: Shredded and adds a sharp and cheesy flavor.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped and adds a pop of color and fresh flavor as a garnish.

Note: For exact measurements, see the recipe card below!

How to Make Crack Chicken Penne

Step 1: Cook the Bacon and Chicken

Cook the bacon in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot, chop it into bits, and set aside. Drain some of the bacon fat from the pot, leaving about 1 tablespoon. Add the chicken pieces to the pot and cook for about 3 minutes over medium-high heat, or until they start to brown. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the chicken and stir to coat evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Add the penne pasta and chicken broth to the pot. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce seems too thick, add more broth as needed.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

Stir in the cream cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Add the chopped bacon and 1 ½ cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until well combined and the cheese is melted.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheddar cheese over the top and cover the pot with the lid. Cook for about 30 seconds, then turn off the heat and remove the lid. The cheese should be melted and gooey. Alternatively, you can place the Dutch oven under the broiler for a few minutes to brown the cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use high-quality cheese: For the best flavor, use freshly shredded cheddar cheese and a good-quality cream cheese.
• Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook the pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly while resting.
• Adjust the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or milk. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a few minutes to reduce.
• Add other ingredients: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the pot along with the pasta, such as diced bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or frozen peas.

How to Serve

This Crack Chicken Penne is a satisfying meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread is perfect for dipping and sopping up the extra sauce.
• Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus for a balanced and nutritious meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Crack Chicken Penne is best enjoyed fresh, but you can also prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers for later.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can! Other pasta shapes that would work well in this recipe include penne, rigatoni, or farfalle.

2. Can I make this recipe without bacon? Yes, you can! Simply omit the bacon for a lighter version.

3. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses.

4. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot or slow cooker? Yes, you can! Follow the instructions in the Notes section of the recipe card for Instant Pot and slow cooker variations.

This Crack Chicken Penne Recipe is a quick, easy, and delicious way to enjoy a flavorful and comforting meal. With its simple preparation, versatile ingredients, and creamy sauce, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again!

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