Ingredients
Ingredients:
For this delicious Crack Chicken Penne recipe, you’ll need:
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken (rotisserie chicken works great for ease)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup bacon, cooked and chopped
- 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
Preparation:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Boil it in salted water until al dente, which usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set the pasta aside. This ensures that your pasta is ready to soak up all the creamy, cheesy goodness we’re about to create.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. You want the onion to be translucent and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until it becomes aromatic. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the onions and garlic are ready, stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Lower the heat slightly and add the cream cheese. Stir constantly to ensure that the cream cheese melts smoothly into the liquid. Once fully incorporated, you’ll have a creamy base for your sauce.
Next, sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix and stir well. This will infuse the sauce with the tangy, herby flavors that make this dish so irresistible. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add the Chicken and Bacon
Now it’s time to add the heartiness to this dish. Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and bacon pieces, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the sauce. The chicken adds a meaty texture, while the bacon provides a smoky, crispy contrast.
Take your drained penne pasta and fold it into the sauce. Use a gentle motion to ensure the pasta is fully coated in the creamy mixture. The sauce will cling to each piece of penne, making every bite rich and flavorful.
Before serving, taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Then, garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Sauce Thickness: If your sauce is too thick, you can thin it out by adding a bit more chicken broth or pasta water. If it’s too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to thicken.
- Bacon Cooking Tip: For extra crispy bacon, bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) on a wire rack over a baking sheet. This method keeps the bacon crispy and reduces the greasiness.
- Cheese: Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best flavor. You can also mix in other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Parmesan for a more complex taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes