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Crack Chicken Penne

Creamy Crack Chicken Penne: Comfort Food in Under 30 Minutes

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, comforting pasta dish made with chicken, cheese, and bacon, perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Pasta
Cuisine: American
Calories: 540

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Penne Pasta Substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
For the Chicken & Sauce
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken (shredded) Use rotisserie chicken for convenience or leftover chicken to save time.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Can be swapped for light cream cheese for a lower-fat option.
  • 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix Adjust to taste to avoid overpowering the dish.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Using low-sodium broth helps control saltiness.
For the Finish
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Substitute with mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese for variations.
  • 6 strips Cooked Bacon (crumbled) Can be left out for a lighter option or replaced with turkey bacon.
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Green Onions Can be replaced with chives or omitted if desired.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large Non-Stick Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crack Chicken Penne
  1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside in a large bowl, letting it cool slightly while you prepare the rest of the dish.
  2. In a large non-stick skillet, combine the cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and chicken broth over medium heat. Stir continuously for about 3-5 minutes until the cream cheese is fully melted and the mixture is smooth, creating a creamy base for your Crack Chicken Penne.
  3. Next, integrate the shredded cooked chicken and crumbled bacon into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Mix thoroughly for about 2-3 minutes, ensuring the chicken is heated through and well-coated with the sauce.
  4. Gently fold the drained penne pasta into the skillet, making sure each piece is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce. Stir for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb some of that creamy goodness.
  5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the pasta mixture, then cover the skillet with a lid. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes on low heat; this will allow the cheese to melt and create a deliciously cheesy topping.
  6. Finally, remove the skillet from heat and uncover it to reveal the creamy, cheesy Crack Chicken Penne. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve warm straight from the skillet.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 540kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 34gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 680mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2.5mg

Notes

Adjust ranch seasoning carefully; it’s easy to add too much without realizing it, affecting overall flavor balance. Feel free to incorporate spinach or mushrooms for added nutrients and a delicious twist.

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