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Creamy Crack Chicken Penne dish topped with herbs and spices

Crack Chicken Penne

This creamy and flavorful Crack Chicken Penne combines tender pasta with a rich sauce made from shredded chicken, crispy bacon, ranch seasoning, and a blend of cheeses, creating a comforting and incredibly satisfying meal perfect for any weeknight.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 720
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 12 ounces Penne pasta
  • 2 cups Cooked chicken, shredded
  • 6 slices Bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 8 ounces Cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup Heavy cream
  • 1 cup Cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) Ranch seasoning mix
  • 1/2 cup Chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons Green onions, sliced for garnish
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing spoon

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, in a large skillet or pot, combine softened cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix. Cook over medium heat, stirring until smooth and heated through.
  3. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, cooked and crumbled bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce. Continue to cook and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined and bubbly.
  4. Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh sliced green onions.

Notes

For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This dish can be made ahead and reheated; simply add a splash of milk or broth if it becomes too thick.