Crack Chicken Penne: A Creamy and Comforting Pasta Dish (Print Version)

Crack Chicken Penne delivers a rich, creamy pasta experience. Tender chicken, savory ranch, and bacon bits in a cheesy sauce make this a comforting dinner classic.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cuisine: American

# Ingredients:

→ The Hearty Foundation

01 - 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 - 1 lb penne pasta

→ The Creamy Embrace

03 - 8 oz full-fat cream cheese, softened
04 - 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
05 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
06 - 2 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix
07 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Savory Accents & Golden Finish

08 - 8 slices thick-cut bacon
09 - 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
10 - 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
11 - Salt to taste
12 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Cook 8 slices thick-cut bacon until crispy. Remove bacon, crumble, and set aside. Drain all but 1 tbsp bacon fat from the pan. Season 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
02 - Cook the seasoned 1 1/2 lbs chicken breasts in the reserved bacon fat over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken, let rest, then shred or dice. Meanwhile, cook 1 lb penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
03 - In the same pan (or a large pot), melt 8 oz full-fat cream cheese over medium heat. Whisk in 1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 2 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until smooth and thickened. This forms the heart of your Crack Chicken Penne: A Creamy and Comforting Pasta Dish.
04 - Add the cooked 1 lb penne pasta, shredded/diced 1 1/2 lbs chicken, and half of the crumbled 8 slices thick-cut bacon to the creamy sauce. Stir well to coat all ingredients evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring a flavorful base for your Crack Chicken Penne: A Creamy and Comforting Pasta Dish.
05 - Stir in 1 cup of the 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated into the creamy pasta. Transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish if desired, then top with the remaining 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese. This final touch elevates your Crack Chicken Penne: A Creamy and Comforting Pasta Dish.
06 - Bake at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Alternatively, cover the pot for 5 minutes to melt the cheese. Garnish your Crack Chicken Penne: A Creamy and Comforting Pasta Dish with the remaining crumbled 8 slices thick-cut bacon and 1/4 cup chopped green onions before serving.

# Notes:

01 - For a quicker meal, use 3 cups of pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken breasts. Shred and add it in Step 4.
02 - Leftovers of this Crack Chicken Penne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.
03 - Serve this rich and comforting pasta dish with a simple side salad or some steamed green beans to balance the flavors and add freshness.
04 - Don't overcook the pasta! Al dente pasta will hold up better in the creamy sauce and prevent the dish from becoming mushy.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large pot
02 - Large skillet
03 - Cutting board
04 - Chef's knife
05 - Measuring cups
06 - Measuring spoons
07 - Wooden spoon

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 812 kcal
Total Fat: 37 g
Total Carbohydrate: 60 g
Protein: 51 g

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