Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Penne
- The Secret to the Perfect Creamy Sauce
- How to Customize This Dish
- Best Side Dishes to Pair With Crack Chicken Penne
- Storage and Reheating Tips
- Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy, and satisfying dish that combines shredded chicken, pasta, bacon, and ranch seasoning for the ultimate comfort meal. It’s an easy-to-make recipe perfect for busy weeknights, requiring just 30 minutes from start to finish. With its rich flavor and simple preparation, it’s a guaranteed family favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Penne
If you’re searching for an easy chicken pasta recipe that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, you’ve come to the right place. This dish is a go-to for weeknight dinners, requiring minimal effort while delivering maximum taste. With a delicious combination of shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, every bite is comfort food perfection.
The Secret to the Perfect Creamy Sauce
The key to making this dish extra creamy lies in using full-fat cream cheese and a mix of shredded cheddar and mozzarella. These ingredients create a silky, rich sauce that clings to the pasta, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. If you love a smooth, cheesy texture, you’ll appreciate how this dish effortlessly blends simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal.
How to Customize This Dish
One of the best things about this easy recipes for dinner option is how versatile it is. You can add steamed broccoli or spinach for a healthier twist, or swap the chicken for turkey or even shrimp for a different protein. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give it a spicy kick.
Best Side Dishes to Pair With Crack Chicken Penne
To make this meal even more satisfying, pair it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh Caesar salad. The crispness of the salad perfectly balances the creamy richness of the pasta. If you want to go all out, serve it with a side of cheesey potatoes easy recipe for a truly indulgent meal.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftovers? This food receipt easy recipes meal stores well in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pan over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring back its creamy consistency. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to prevent drying out.
Looking for more inspiration? Find more delicious recipes at Clara Cooks, where easy recipes meet incredible flavors.
Crack Chicken Penne – Easy & Cheesy Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth.
- Add the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Add the cooked shredded chicken and crumbled bacon, stirring to coat evenly.
- Mix in the cooked pasta and stir until well combined.
- Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy!
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