Description
Creamy, cheesy crack chicken penne delivers comfort on a plate, blending savory chicken, bacon, and ranch flavors into one irresistible pasta dish. Home cooks will find this simple yet indulgent recipe perfect for weeknight dinners that satisfy serious cravings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Cheese and Dairy Ingredients:
- 1 (8 ounces) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
Pasta and Seasoning Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
- 1 (1 ounce) packet ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta in a large pot according to package directions until al dente, then drain and reserve.
- Return the pot to the stove and combine chicken broth, heavy cream, and cream cheese, whisking until the mixture becomes silky and uniform.
- Introduce shredded chicken and dry seasonings, including ranch mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes, stirring thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly.
- Incorporate cooked penne into the creamy sauce, then fold in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, continuing to stir until cheese melts completely and creates a luscious coating.
- Sprinkle crumbled bacon throughout the pasta, allowing the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors and ensure everything is heated through.
- Transfer to serving dishes, garnish with freshly chopped green onions, and serve immediately while piping hot for maximum flavor and texture enjoyment.
Notes
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and prevent an overly salty dish.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version that’s still creamy and delicious.
- For a gluten-free option, replace regular penne with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa.
- Enhance protein content by adding extra shredded rotisserie chicken or using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a tangy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 505 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg