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Crack Chicken Penne

Creamy, cheesy Crack Chicken Penne loaded with crispy bacon, ranch-seasoned chicken, and tender pasta. An easy comfort-food dinner perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals.
Prep Time: 10 minutesCook Time: 25 minutesTotal Time: 35 minutes
Course: Main CourseCuisine: AmericanKeyword: Crack Chicken PenneServings: 4 servingsCalories: ~620 kcal per serving

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Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Pasta
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • Chicken & Bacon
  • 2 large chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces
  • 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Creamy Crack Sauce
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 6 oz cream cheese softened
  • ¾ cup heavy cream or whole milk
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix adjust to taste
  • Optional Garnish
  • Chopped parsley or green onions

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
  3. Cook the Chicken
  4. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of ranch seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
  5. Cook the Bacon
  6. In the same skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Transfer to paper towels and crumble. Leave about 1 tablespoon bacon grease in the pan.
  7. Make the Sauce
  8. Reduce heat to medium. Add butter, onion, and garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant. Stir in cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth.
  9. Add Cheese & Seasoning
  10. Mix in cheddar cheese and remaining ranch seasoning. Stir until melted and creamy. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
  11. Combine Everything
  12. Return chicken and bacon to the skillet. Add cooked penne and toss until fully coated.
  13. Serve
  14. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish if desired and serve warm.