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Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne is a rich, creamy pasta made with tender chicken, crispy bacon, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and melted cheddar. An easy, comforting dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights and family meals.
Prep Time: 10 minutesCook Time: 25 minutesTotal Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4–6Cuisine: AmericanCourse: DinnerMethod: StovetopKeyword: Crack Chicken Penne

Ingredients
  

  • Pasta
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • Salt for pasta water
  • Crack Chicken Sauce
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 6 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • ½ cup milk or chicken broth
  • Black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and cut into bite-sized pieces.
  3. In the same skillet, lower heat and add cream cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
  4. Add ranch seasoning and milk or broth. Stir until a creamy sauce forms.
  5. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly.
  6. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Season with black pepper to taste. Serve hot.