Crack Chicken Penne is a comforting, indulgent dish that combines creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors with tender pasta and chunks of chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb penne pasta:
Penne pasta holds up well in creamy dishes and provides a hearty base for the sauce. - 2 cups shredded cooked chicken:
Use rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand. It adds a rich, savory flavor to the dish. - 1 packet ranch seasoning mix:
This seasoning mix gives the dish its signature “crack” flavor, with a tangy and herbaceous kick. - 8 oz cream cheese, softened:
Cream cheese adds creaminess and a rich texture to the sauce. - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded:
Sharp cheddar cheese enhances the cheesy flavor and adds a nice depth to the sauce. - 3/4 cup bacon, cooked and chopped:
Bacon adds a crispy, smoky element that complements the creamy sauce. - 1/2 cup chicken broth:
Chicken broth helps to thin the sauce and infuses it with extra flavor. - 1/2 cup heavy cream:
Heavy cream makes the sauce extra creamy and rich. - 1 tbsp olive oil:
Used for sautéing the onion and garlic. - 1/2 onion, diced:
Adds sweetness and flavor to the base of the sauce. - 2 cloves garlic, minced:
Garlic provides a robust flavor that enhances the overall dish. - Salt and pepper to taste:
Adjust according to your preference. - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish:
Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a hint of color to the finished dish.
Instructions:
- Cook the Penne Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and well combined with the onion and garlic.
- Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce.
- Add the ranch seasoning mix and stir to combine.
- Mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the shredded cooked chicken and cooked bacon to the sauce, stirring to coat them with the creamy mixture.
- Gently fold in the cooked penne pasta until evenly mixed and the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Season and Garnish:
- Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve:
- Transfer the Crack Chicken Penne to serving dishes.
- Enjoy it hot, straight from the skillet.
Tips for the Best Crack Chicken Penne:
- Cream Cheese: Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the skillet. This will help it melt more easily and blend smoothly into the sauce.
- Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken. Shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
- Bacon: For extra crispiness, cook the bacon until it’s very crispy before chopping it. This will add a nice texture to the dish.
- Adjusting Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or heavy cream to reach your desired consistency.
- Make Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
Crack Chicken Penne is a decadent and satisfying meal that brings together creamy cheese, savory chicken, and crispy bacon in a delicious pasta dish. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner and can easily be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness and the delightful crunch of bacon with every bite!
