Description
Creamy “crack chicken penne” delivers irresistible comfort with its cheesy, herb-infused sauce and tender chicken. Hearty pasta lovers will discover a perfect balance of rich flavors that promise satisfaction in every delightful bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (454 grams) penne pasta
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
Meat Additions:
- 3/4 cup bacon, cooked and chopped
Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers:
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 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 fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare a pot of salted water and cook penne pasta until tender yet firm, ensuring a perfect al dente texture.
- Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside, allowing excess water to evaporate.
- Select a spacious skillet and warm olive oil over medium heat, creating a gentle sizzling environment.
- Introduce finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and release their aromatic essence.
- Reduce the stovetop temperature to low, creating a gentle cooking atmosphere for the sauce.
- Incorporate cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix, stirring with precision until a smooth, velvety consistency emerges.
- Gradually stream chicken broth and heavy cream into the skillet, whisking continuously to create a harmonious, creamy blend.
- Fold in succulent shredded chicken, sprinkle half the crispy bacon pieces, and add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until the cheese melts completely.
- Gently introduce the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing meticulously to ensure each pasta strand is luxuriously coated with the creamy sauce.
- Complete the dish by scattering remaining bacon bits and freshly chopped parsley across the surface for a vibrant, appetizing presentation.
Notes
- Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of ranch seasoning mix for a milder or bolder flavor profile.
- Swap cream cheese for Greek yogurt to reduce calories and add a tangy twist to the dish.
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and checking that the ranch seasoning mix is certified gluten-free.
- Prep ingredients ahead of time to streamline the cooking process and reduce overall meal preparation time.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 660
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 38 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 51 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 33 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg