Why Make This Recipe

Crack Chicken Penne is a delicious and creamy pasta dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. It’s easy to make and combines tasty ingredients like chicken, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning. This recipe is a sure winner that will satisfy everyone at the table. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a great choice for those days when you need a hearty meal in no time.

How to Make Crack Chicken Penne

Ingredients:

1 lb penne pasta
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
8 oz cream cheese
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions

Directions:

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, combine the cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and chicken broth over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Stir in the shredded cooked chicken and crumbled cooked bacon into the skillet sauce, mixing thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and stir well to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy chicken sauce.
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture, cover the skillet, and cook for a few minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
Remove from heat, garnish the dish with chopped green onions, and serve immediately while warm.

How to Serve Crack Chicken Penne

Serve Crack Chicken Penne hot right out of the skillet. It pairs well with a simple green salad and some crusty bread. For the best experience, make sure to offer extra green onions and bacon on the side for those who want to add more toppings.

How to Store Crack Chicken Penne

To store leftover Crack Chicken Penne, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for about 3 to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy and prevent drying out.

Tips to Make Crack Chicken Penne

Use leftover rotisserie chicken for extra flavor and convenience.
Feel free to add vegetables, like peas or spinach, for added nutrition.
Adjust the ranch seasoning according to your taste preference; you can use less or more based on how strong you want the flavor.

Variation

You can make a lighter version of Crack Chicken Penne by using whole wheat penne pasta and low-fat cream cheese. For added flavor, consider adding some garlic or red pepper flakes.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as rigatoni or fusilli. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Simply combine them when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze Crack Chicken Penne. Make sure to place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove, adding a bit of chicken broth if needed.