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Crack Chicken Penne

Creamy Crack Chicken Penne for Quick Family Dinners

A family-friendly Crack Chicken Penne recipe that blends tender pasta with creamy sauce, chicken, and bacon for a quick dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 2 cups Penne Pasta can be replaced with gluten-free pasta
For the Filling
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken, shredded rotisserie chicken works well
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese low-fat cream cheese can be used
  • 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix adjust to personal taste
For the Topping
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese sharp cheddar for more punch
  • 1/2 cup Cooked Bacon, crumbled turkey bacon can be used
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions can substitute with chives
For the Sauce Base
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth low-sodium broth for healthier option

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Non-stick Skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a non-stick skillet, combine cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, and chicken broth over medium heat. Stir until smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes.
  3. Add shredded cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Stir gently for 2-3 minutes until well combined and heated through.
  4. Incorporate the cooked penne pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce. Stir for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let the cheese melt for about 5 minutes.
  6. Remove from heat, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1portionCalories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For optimal texture, avoid overcooking the pasta and stir regularly to prevent sticking while cooking the sauce.

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