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Crack Chicken Penne

Creamy Crack Chicken Penne for Busy Weeknight Comfort

Indulge in Creamy Crack Chicken Penne, a quick yet delightful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch-flavored cheese sauce for a comforting weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Penne Pasta swap with gluten-free pasta if needed
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken shredded rotisserie chicken can save you time
  • 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix adds signature tangy flavor
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese use low-fat for lighter version
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar mild cheddar can be used for a milder taste
  • 4 oz Bacon turkey bacon can be used as a leaner option
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth vegetable broth works for vegetarian versions
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream light cream can be substituted for fewer calories
For Flavor
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil for sautéing the onions
  • 1 medium Onion sweet onions preferred
  • 3 cloves Garlic fresh minced garlic is best
For Garnish
  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley can substitute with chives

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet

Method
 

Steps
  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook for 9-12 minutes until al dente. Reserve half a cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare Sauce Base: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3 minutes until onion is translucent.
  3. Combine Sauce Ingredients: Lower heat and add cream cheese and ranch seasoning to the skillet, stirring until blended. Slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing well as sauce thickens.
  4. Add Chicken and Cheddar: Incorporate shredded chicken and sharp cheddar cheese into the sauce, stirring until cheese is melted and the sauce is rich.
  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add drained penne pasta to the skillet, tossing until well coated. Adjust with reserved pasta water for desired consistency.
  6. Serve and Garnish: Remove from heat, plate the Crack Chicken Penne, and garnish with crumbled bacon and chopped parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze in a safe container for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or cream.

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