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Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 72 reviews

This creamy and flavorful Crack Chicken Penne recipe combines tender shredded chicken, smoky bacon, and a rich ranch-flavored cream cheese sauce tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh green onions, this comforting dish is quick to make and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 1 lb penne pasta

Protein

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled

Sauce

  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 cups chicken broth

Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and chicken broth. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has fully melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
  3. Add Chicken and Bacon: Stir the shredded cooked chicken and crumbled cooked bacon into the sauce. Mix well to evenly combine all ingredients and heat through.
  4. Toss with Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is thoroughly coated with the creamy ranch sauce.
  5. Add Cheese and Melt: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts completely.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the chopped green onions on top as a fresh garnish. Serve the creamy crack chicken penne immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a quick shortcut to cooking the chicken.
  • For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or milk to the sauce if desired.
  • To make it gluten-free, substitute the penne with gluten-free pasta.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
  • Add some steamed vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition.

Keywords: Crack chicken penne, creamy chicken pasta, ranch seasoning pasta, bacon pasta recipe, easy chicken dinner

Find it online: https://mjrecipe.com/crack-chicken-penne-recipe/