Crack Chicken Penne Recipe:
Indulge in the creamy and savory flavors of this Crack Chicken Penne, a dish that combines hearty pasta with the decadent taste of ranch, cheese, and bacon. It’s a comforting meal that’s perfect for family dinners or when you need a little extra warmth in your life. Let’s get cooking!
This Crack Chicken Penne is creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. It’s sure to be a hit, satisfying both kids and adults alike. Enjoy this luscious dish on any night for a guaranteed comfort food fix!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Directions:
- Prepare the Pasta:
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside in a large mixing bowl.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
- Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add Liquids:
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine into a creamy sauce.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients:
- Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, half of the cooked bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Mix with Pasta:
- Pour the creamy chicken mixture over the cooked penne pasta in the bowl. Mix thoroughly to ensure all the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with the remaining chopped bacon and fresh parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Pro Tips:
- Chicken Prep: For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken or cooking your own chicken breasts seasoned with a bit of the ranch mix.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or gouda, for different flavors and textures.
- For Spicier Taste: Add a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic if you like a bit of heat.
