Why Make This Recipe
Crack Chicken Penne is a delightful dish that combines the comfort of pasta with the rich flavors of chicken and ranch. It’s creamy, cheesy, and has a hint of bacon that takes it over the top. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you!
How to Make Crack Chicken Penne
Ingredients:
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Directions:
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, combine cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth over medium heat. Stir until smooth.
- Add shredded chicken and cooked bacon to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix well to coat with the sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta and cover until the cheese is melted.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
How to Serve Crack Chicken Penne
You can serve Crack Chicken Penne hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs well with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. For extra flavor, consider adding more chopped green onions or even a sprinkle of paprika on top for a pop of color.
How to Store Crack Chicken Penne
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or gently warm it on the stove with a little bit of chicken broth to keep it creamy.
Tips to Make Crack Chicken Penne
- Make sure to stir the cream cheese well to avoid lumps.
- You can use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time.
- For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Consider using whole wheat penne for a healthier option.
Variation
If you want to change things up, you can add more veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You can also use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist on this dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and shred it before adding it to the skillet.
2. Is there a gluten-free option for this dish?
Yes! You can substitute the penne pasta with a gluten-free pasta option.
3. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and then cook them when you’re ready to serve. Just mix everything before baking it to achieve that creamy texture.