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Crack Chicken Penne

Creamy Crack Chicken Penne That Family Will Love

A quick and creamy Crack Chicken Penne recipe that combines pasta, chicken, bacon, and a rich sauce. Perfect comfort food for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Penne Pasta Feel free to swap with gluten-free pasta for a lighter option.
For the Protein
  • 6 slices Bacon Turkey bacon is a great substitute for a leaner taste.
  • 2 cups Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Use shredded rotisserie chicken for quicker prep.
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Shallots are a nice alternative.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Prefer fresh garlic but garlic powder works too.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can work for a vegetarian twist.
  • 1 cup Sour Cream Greek yogurt makes a healthier swap.
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Neufchâtel or vegan cream cheese are good alternatives.
  • 1 oz Dry Ranch Dressing Mix Homemade ranch mix can elevate the flavor.
For the Finish
  • 2 tsp Dried Parsley Fresh parsley adds a pop of freshness.
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese Any melty cheese can substitute if desired.
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions Chives can be a lovely alternative.

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process, setting it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
  2. In a large pot or skillet, heat over medium-high heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. Once browned, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot, leaving the rendered fat for the next steps, and drain the excess grease.
  3. In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the cubed boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Season with salt and pepper, then sauté for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is seared on all sides and cooked through.
  4. To the pot with the chicken, add the diced yellow onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the sour cream, cream cheese, and ranch dressing mix, stirring to combine everything. Season with additional salt, pepper, and dried parsley to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Once the sauce is smooth and heated through, stir in the cooked penne pasta along with the crispy bacon. Mix well to ensure the pasta is thoroughly coated in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to meld all the flavors together.
  7. Remove the pot from heat and fold in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Check seasoning again and adjust as necessary.
  8. Spoon the Crack Chicken Penne into serving bowls and garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch before serving warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 32gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 85mgSodium: 750mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 400IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.

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