Creamy Crack Chicken Penne Pasta Recipe (Print Version)
Creamy Crack Chicken Penne pasta combines tender chicken, savory bacon, and a rich, cheesy sauce. A comforting weeknight meal the whole family will love.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
# Ingredients:
→ The Comforting Core
01 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 -
1 lb penne pasta
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
04 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Creamy Dream Sauce
05 -
8 oz cream cheese, softened
06 -
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
07 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
08 -
1 oz packet ranch seasoning mix (about 2 tbsp)
09 -
1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
→ Flavor Burst & Garnish
10 -
8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
11 -
1/4 cup sliced green onions, for garnish
12 -
1 tsp garlic powder
13 -
1/2 tsp onion powder
14 -
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook 8 slices bacon until crisp; crumble and set aside. Cut 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Season chicken with 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. This is the comforting core of your Crack Chicken Penne: Creamy & Comforting Pasta.
03 -
While chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 lb penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain well, reserving about 1/2 cup pasta water, then return pasta to the pot.
04 -
In the same skillet (no need to clean), reduce heat to medium. Add 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1 1/2 cups chicken broth, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and 1 oz ranch seasoning mix. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
05 -
Stir the cooked chicken into the sauce. Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet. Gradually stir in 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and the Crack Chicken Penne: Creamy & Comforting Pasta is wonderfully creamy. If too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
06 -
Transfer the Crack Chicken Penne: Creamy & Comforting Pasta to serving bowls. Garnish generously with the crumbled 8 slices bacon and 1/4 cup sliced green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting meal.
# Notes:
01 -
For extra flavor, cook the bacon in the skillet first, then use a little of the rendered bacon fat instead of olive oil to cook the chicken.
02 -
Leftovers of this Crack Chicken Penne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
03 -
Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time; simply shred 3-4 cups and add it in Step 5. You can also swap penne for another short pasta like rotini or cavatappi.
04 -
This rich pasta pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy flavors. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups
06 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 825 kcal
Total Fat: 39 g
Total Carbohydrate: 62 g
Protein: 49 g