Description
This Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy chicken pasta dinner packed with bacon, ranch, and penne pasta. A one-pot family favorite perfect for quick weeknight meals. Comfort food at its best!
Ingredients
2 cups penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
8 oz cream cheese
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 packet dry ranch seasoning mix
1 cup milk
1/2 cup chicken broth
6 slices crispy bacon, chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
1. Boil penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add cream cheese, milk, and chicken broth. Stir until the cream cheese fully melts and the mixture simmers.
3. Whisk in the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes.
4. Add in the cooked chicken and cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the chicken is heated through.
5. Stir in the cooked pasta and chopped bacon until everything is coated in the creamy sauce.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and additional bacon if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Use rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
Add a splash of broth or milk when reheating to keep the sauce smooth.
For spice lovers, a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg