Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

This Crack Chicken Penne recipe is the ultimate comfort food; loaded with creamy ranch-seasoned chicken, crispy bacon, and gooey cheese tossed into pasta. It’s weeknight magic that disappears fast!

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Resting Time 5

Total Time 40

Servings: 4

Course: Chicken Recipes, Easy Dinner ideas

Cuisine: American

Calories: 610

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

2 cups cooked chicken shredded
8 oz penne pasta cooked al dente
6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup cream cheese softened
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup milk
1 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp chopped parsley optional, for garnish

Equipment

1 Large pot
1 Skillet or sauté pan
1 Mixing bowl
1 Wooden spoon or spatula

Method

Cook Pasta: Boil penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make Sauce Base: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the cream cheese, chicken broth, and milk. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Add Flavor: Stir in ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Let it bubble gently for 2–3 minutes.
Add Chicken and Bacon: Toss in the shredded chicken and crumbled bacon. Stir to coat everything in the sauce.
Add Cheese and Pasta: Mix in cheddar cheese until melted, then add cooked penne. Stir everything together until hot and creamy.
Rest and Serve: Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Calories: ~610 kcal
Protein: ~35g
Fat: ~30g
Carbohydrates: ~45g

(Nutrition estimate based on Healthline’s chicken calorie info and general pasta values)