Crack Chicken Penne is a rich, creamy pasta dish loaded with bold flavors from ranch seasoning, crispy bacon, tender chicken, and gooey melted cheese. This comforting meal combines everything you love in one bowl – from savory chicken to the indulgence of cream cheese and cheddar, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, offering a delicious blend of textures and flavors that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, heavy cream, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine the Ingredients:
- Stir the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon into the sauce. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and combined.
- Toss with Pasta:
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Crack Chicken Penne is a decadent and flavorful dish that’s incredibly easy to make, offering a creamy, cheesy, and savory combination that’s sure to become a family favorite.
