Indulgent Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

Introduction

Indulgent Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish loaded with shredded chicken and crispy bacon. It’s an easy, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners that will quickly become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces penne pasta (can substitute with gluten-free pasta)
• 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded, rotisserie chicken works well)
• 8 ounces cream cheese (consider lower-fat version)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (can substitute with Monterey Jack)
• 6 slices cooked bacon (crumbled, turkey bacon for lighter option)
• 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water.
2. Step 2: In a large skillet, combine cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth over medium heat, stirring until smooth and heated through.
3. Step 3: Add shredded chicken and crumbled bacon to the skillet, mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Step 4: Stir in the cooked penne pasta, ensuring it is evenly coated with the sauce, about 2 minutes.
5. Step 5: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let sit for 3-5 minutes until cheese melts.
6. Step 6: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of milk or heavy cream when combining the cream cheese and chicken broth.
• Swap cheddar cheese for Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a different flavor and melt.
• Add steamed broccoli or peas for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
• Use ground turkey bacon or omit bacon for a lighter version.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie?

Yes, you can cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs, shred them, and use them in this recipe. Cooking the chicken in advance helps speed up the process.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely. Just substitute regular penne with your preferred gluten-free pasta to keep it safe for gluten-free diets.

Indulgent Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 61 reviews

• Author: Ella
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Salt

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Description

Indulgent Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish featuring tender shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a flavorful ranch-infused sauce. This recipe combines penne pasta with a rich blend of cream cheese, cheddar, and bacon for a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Pasta

• 8 ounces Penne Pasta (can substitute with gluten-free pasta)

Chicken & Meat

• 2 cups Cooked Chicken (shredded) (rotisserie chicken works well)
• 6 slices Cooked Bacon (crumbled) (turkey bacon for lighter option)

Cheese & Dairy

• 8 ounces Cream Cheese (consider lower-fat version)
• 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese (can substitute with Monterey Jack)

Seasoning & Liquids

• 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup Chicken Broth (low-sodium options recommended)

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions

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Instructions

1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
2. Prepare Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and chicken broth. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and the mixture is smooth and heated through.
3. Add Chicken and Bacon: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and crumbled cooked bacon into the skillet. Mix well and cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Cook for about 2 minutes while stirring gently to heat the pasta through.
5. Melt Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let it sit for 3 to 5 minutes until the cheese melts completely.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat, garnish the dish with chopped green onions, and serve the dish hot for a creamy, savory meal experience.

Notes

• You can substitute the penne with gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free.
• For a lighter option, use turkey bacon and lower-fat cream cheese.
• Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning to taste depending on your preference for flavor intensity.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to restore creaminess.
• To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic powder or smoked paprika to the sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: crack chicken, penne pasta, creamy chicken pasta, ranch chicken, bacon pasta, cheesy pasta dish