Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy, and utterly addictive pasta dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This dish combines tender pasta, succulent chicken, crispy bacon, and a luscious cream cheese sauce seasoned with ranch for a flavor-packed meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Comes together in under an hour for a fuss-free dinner.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy, cheesy flavors are a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe with different proteins, vegetables, or pasta shapes.
• Perfect Comfort Food: Rich and indulgent, ideal for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Penne pasta
• Chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Cream cheese
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Chicken broth
• Milk
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil penne in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, combine cream cheese, chicken broth, milk, and ranch seasoning. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients: Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir to coat evenly in the sauce.
5. Add Bacon: Sprinkle in the cooked and crumbled bacon, mixing it into the dish.
6. Serve: Plate the Crack Chicken Penne and garnish with additional cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms or zucchini, and use plant-based bacon alternatives.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free.
• Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of your favorites.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Alternatively, use a microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken works perfectly and saves time. Just shred and add it to the sauce.

2. What other pasta shapes can I use?

You can use rigatoni, fusilli, or shells for a similar result.

3. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?

Add extra milk or chicken broth to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the dish up to the point of adding cheese and bacon. Refrigerate and bake when ready to serve.

5. What can I serve with Crack Chicken Penne?

Serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

6. Is there a dairy-free version?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and shredded cheese, and replace milk with a plant-based alternative.

7. Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook the chicken using the sauté function, then pressure cook the pasta and sauce ingredients for 5 minutes. Stir in cheese and bacon after cooking.

8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Try adding spinach, broccoli, or peas for added nutrients.

9. How do I cook bacon for this recipe?

Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy, then crumble it. Alternatively, bake it in the oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes.

10. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, the creamy and cheesy flavors are a favorite among kids. You can omit bacon or ranch seasoning if preferred.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that combines bold flavors and creamy textures for a meal that everyone will adore. Perfect for busy weeknights or indulgent weekends, this recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers. Make it once, and it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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