Description
Creamy Crack Chicken Penne Pasta is a rich and indulgent dish loaded with shredded chicken, crispy bacon, ranch seasoning, and gooey cheese all wrapped in a creamy sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add cream cheese and stir until smooth and melted.
- Whisk in ranch seasoning, chicken broth, and heavy cream until well combined.
- Stir in shredded chicken, cooked bacon (reserve a bit for garnish), cheddar cheese, and mozzarella cheese. Cook until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Cook for 2–3 more minutes until everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with green onions or parsley and remaining bacon bits.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- This dish can be made ahead and reheated—add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 710mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: crack chicken pasta, creamy penne pasta, bacon ranch pasta, cheesy chicken pasta, comfort food dinner