Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines penne pasta with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich cheese sauce. To make this dish, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. In a skillet, sauté diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil until translucent. Add softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix, stirring until smooth. Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to create a creamy sauce. Mix in the shredded chicken, half of the cooked bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese until the cheese melts and the ingredients are well combined. Finally, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, ensuring each piece is coated with the sauce. Garnish with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley before serving. This dish is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Crack Chicken Penne is a decadent and creamy dish that's perfect for a satisfying dinner. Below are the detailed ingredients needed to prepare this delightful recipe.
INGREDIENTS
- Penne Pasta: 1 lb, cooked according to package instructions.
- Shredded Cooked Chicken: 2 cups, adds protein and texture.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: 1 packet, provides a savory and tangy flavor.
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened, creates a creamy base for the sauce.
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded, adds a rich, cheesy flavor.
- Bacon: 3/4 cup, cooked and chopped, adds a smoky, savory element.
- Chicken Broth: 1/2 cup, helps to thin out the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: 1/2 cup, adds richness and creaminess.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, used for sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Onion: 1/2, diced, adds flavor and texture.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, adds aromatic flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: to taste, enhances the overall flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, used for garnish.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 1 lb of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, typically around 10-12 minutes. For a perfect texture in the final dish, ensure the pasta is cooked al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1/2 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds the aromatic base of the dish.
- Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce the heat to low. Add 8 oz of softened cream cheese and 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has melted and the mixture is smooth and creamy. This ensures the sauce has a rich, velvety texture.
- Step 4: Incorporate Liquids
- Gradually pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of heavy cream, stirring continuously. This step helps to combine the liquids with the cream cheese mixture, creating a cohesive and smooth sauce. Continue stirring until the sauce is well blended and slightly thickened.
- Step 5: Add the Main Ingredients
- Add 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken, half of the cooked and chopped bacon (about 3/8 cup), and 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese has melted and the ingredients are well incorporated into the sauce, ensuring even distribution of flavors.
- Step 6: Combine with Cooked Penne
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Mix thoroughly to ensure that the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy chicken mixture. This helps the pasta absorb the flavors of the sauce, making each bite flavorful.
- Step 7: Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the mixture to a serving dish. Garnish with the remaining cooked bacon and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and added flavor. Serve the dish hot, allowing the creamy sauce to be enjoyed at its best.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the Crack Chicken Penne immediately after preparation to enjoy its creamy texture and flavors at their peak.
- This dish pairs well with garlic bread, crusty Italian bread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
- To reheat, use the microwave on medium power, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through, or reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore creaminess.
Helpful Notes
- Using high-quality, full-fat cream cheese will give you the creamiest texture.
- Shredding your own cheese rather than using pre-shredded cheese helps it melt better.
- Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat, or season the chicken with Cajun spices for extra flavor.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Ina Garten: "For the best flavor, use fresh ingredients and let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together."
- Chef Gordon Ramsay: "Browning the chicken well adds a depth of flavor to the dish."
- Chef Bobby Flay: "A touch of cayenne pepper can give the dish a slight kick and enhance the overall flavors."