Here’s a Crack Chicken Penne recipe that’s creamy, flavorful, and sure to be a hit at the dinner table. This dish combines the savory flavors of bacon, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and chicken in a delicious, cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent pasta dish loaded with flavorful ingredients like bacon, ranch seasoning, chicken, and cream cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s simple to make and sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound penne pasta – The base for this creamy pasta dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For cooking the chicken.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced – Provides protein and flavor.
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled – Adds smokiness and crunch.
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix – For a zesty, herby flavor.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened – Makes the dish creamy and indulgent.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – For melty, gooey goodness.
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese – Adds a nice melt and stringiness.
- 1 cup heavy cream – For a rich and velvety sauce.
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped – For garnish and added flavor.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – To season the chicken and pasta.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and half of the ranch seasoning mix. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add the cream cheese and cook over medium-low heat, stirring until it begins to soften. Add the heavy cream and the remaining ranch seasoning mix. Stir everything together until the cream cheese is fully incorporated into the sauce.
Once the sauce is smooth, add the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese, stirring until they melt into the sauce and it becomes thick and creamy.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the sauce. Stir to combine and let everything heat through for 2-3 minutes. Crack Chicken Tenders
Step 5: Toss with Pasta
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy chicken and bacon sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Serve the Crack Chicken Penne with a sprinkle of chopped green onions for color and a bit of freshness. You can also add extra crumbled bacon or shredded cheese on top if desired.
Pro Tips for the Best Crack Chicken Penne
- Customize the Cheese: You can mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Add Veggies: For a balanced dish, consider adding some vegetables like spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce.
- Use Leftover Chicken: This dish is great for using up leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand.
- Make It Spicy: For a spicy kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or use pepper jack cheese.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats well! Just store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair with a light salad, like a Caesar salad or mixed greens, to balance out the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread or a side of crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce.
- Steamed Veggies: If you want to add some vegetables to the meal, steamed broccoli or asparagus would pair well.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 550 kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fats: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Conclusion
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious comfort food dish that’s perfect for busy nights when you need a quick, satisfying meal. With the richness of the cream cheese, the smokiness of the bacon, and the zesty flavor of ranch seasoning, this pasta dish will quickly become a family favorite! Olive Garden Asiago Tortelloni Alfredo with Grilled Chicken