Creamy Crack Chicken Penne

Welcome

Make a warm, rich meal with simple things. This dish mixes pasta, chicken, cheese, bacon, and a tangy ranch taste. It cooks fast and fills the house with a good smell. If you like fast chicken dishes, try crack chicken tenders for another quick idea.

Why make this recipe

You get a full meal in one pan. The sauce is thick and creamy. Kids and grown ups like the bacon and cheese mix. You can use cooked chicken from the fridge and make it in minutes. If you love creamy meals, see how creamy garlic chicken keeps the same soft, rich feel.

How to make Creamy Crack Chicken Penne

You build the sauce in a pan, then add the pasta. The cream cheese and ranch powder give flavor and a silky feel. Shredded chicken joins the sauce so each bite has meat and sauce. For a sauce idea that pairs well, think of creamy mushroom chicken meatballs where the sauce hugs the food.

Ingredients :

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions :

1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine shredded chicken, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and chicken broth. Stir until cream cheese melts and the mix is smooth.
3. Add cooked penne to the skillet. Mix well so the pasta gets the sauce.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese and cooked bacon. Cook until the cheese melts.
5. Taste and add salt and pepper as you like.
6. Serve hot, and top with chopped green onions.

How to serve Creamy Crack Chicken Penne

Serve hot on warm plates. Add a green side salad to cut the richness. You can also serve with steamed veg or crusty bread. For a full, cozy plate, pair it with a mild side like creamy smothered chicken and rice style sides.

How to store Creamy Crack Chicken Penne

Cool the pasta to room temp before you pack it. Put it in an airtight box and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. To freeze, place in a freezer bag and keep up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge then warm on the stove with a splash of broth or milk. If you used leftover chicken from a bake, like baked ranch chicken, it stores the same way.

Tips to make Creamy Crack Chicken Penne

• Use warm cream cheese so it melts fast and smooth.
• Keep chicken pieces small so the sauce coats them well.
• Add a bit more broth if the sauce gets too thick when you reheat.
• Cook bacon crisp and crumble it right before you add it so it stays crunchy.

Variation (if any)

• Make it spicy: add a pinch of red chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Make it lighter: swap half the cream cheese for plain Greek yogurt (add it off the heat).
• Make it one-pan: cook diced raw chicken in the skillet first, then add the rest and cook until done.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes. Use penne, fusilli, or shells. Pick a shape that holds the sauce.

Q: Can I skip the bacon?
A: Yes. The dish still tastes great without bacon. Add more cheese or a bit of smoked paprika for a smoky note.

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Make it, cool it, and keep it in the fridge. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth.

Q: How do I reheat without drying it out?
A: Reheat on low heat. Add a little chicken broth or milk and stir until warm.

Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes. Rotisserie chicken works well and saves time.

Conclusion

Try this Creamy Crack Chicken Penne for a fast, warm dinner that pleases many. For another take on this idea, see a similar recipe at Crack Chicken Penne – Jo Cooks.