Crack Chicken Penne (Print)
Creamy penne pasta with ranch-seasoned chicken, melted cheddar, and crispy bacon for a comforting and flavorful dinner option.
# Ingredients:
→ Pasta
01 -
500g penne pasta
→ Protein
02 -
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
03 -
175g bacon, cooked and chopped
→ Sauce Base
04 -
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
05 -
225g cream cheese, softened
06 -
120ml chicken broth
07 -
120ml heavy cream
08 -
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
→ Aromatics
09 -
1 tablespoon olive oil
10 -
1/2 onion, diced
11 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
12 -
Salt and pepper to taste
→ Garnish
13 -
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
# Directions:
01 -
Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
02 -
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent and fragrant.
03 -
Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix to the skillet, stirring continuously until smooth and completely melted.
04 -
Gradually incorporate chicken broth and heavy cream into the mixture, stirring continuously until sauce is well combined and silky.
05 -
Fold in the shredded chicken, half of the cooked bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is fully melted and ingredients are well distributed.
06 -
Add the cooked penne to the skillet, thoroughly tossing until pasta is completely coated with the creamy sauce.
07 -
Transfer to a serving dish. Top with remaining bacon and freshly chopped parsley before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For optimal flavor, allow the dish to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the sauce thicken and better adhere to the pasta.