Description

This Crack Chicken Penne is a rich and comforting dish made with tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch-flavored sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s perfect for a family dinner!

Ingredients

Units Scale

12 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika (optional)
1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta
- Boil the penne in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Add Chicken & Cheese
- Stir in the cooked chicken and let simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
Combine & Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well.
- Stir in crumbled bacon and season with black pepper and paprika.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve warm.

Notes

You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Swap out heavy cream for half-and-half if you want a lighter version.
Add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.