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Crack Chicken Penne

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This Crack Chicken Penne combines tender pasta, creamy cheese sauce, crispy bacon, and flavorful ranch-seasoned chicken for a one-pot comfort food meal that’s absolutely irresistible. Perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something indulgent!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 1 pound (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 packet (1 oz/28 g) ranch seasoning mix
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta and Sauce:

  • 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 3 cups (720 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk
  • 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta (uncooked)
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Optional Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
    • Season the chicken pieces with ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper.
    • Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Add the Liquids and Pasta:
    • In the same skillet, add the chicken broth, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using).
    • Stir in the uncooked penne pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender.
  3. Make the Sauce:
    • Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cream cheese until melted and smooth.
    • Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, along with the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
  4. Add the Bacon:
    • Stir in the crumbled bacon, reserving a small amount for garnish if desired.
  5. Serve:
    • Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of freshness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Make It Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier kick.
  • Pasta Options: Substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rotini or farfalle.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/crack-chicken-penne/