Description
Savory crack chicken penne delivers a mouthwatering pasta experience with creamy ranch-infused chicken and hearty noodles. Quick preparation and rich flavors make this dish perfect for weeknight dinners you can enjoy with family and friends.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
Pasta and Cheese Ingredients:
- 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
- 8 ounces (226 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1.5 cups (170 grams) shredded cheddar cheese
Seasoning and Liquid Ingredients:
- 1 packet (1 ounce/28 grams) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Boil penne pasta in salted water for 8-10 minutes until al dente, then drain thoroughly and set aside.
- In a large skillet, combine chicken broth and heavy cream over medium heat, whisking until integrated.
- Incorporate cream cheese into the liquid, stirring continuously until completely melted and creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper into the sauce, mixing well to distribute flavors evenly.
- Fold shredded chicken and cooked pasta into the creamy mixture, ensuring each piece is generously coated with the seasoned sauce.
- Gradually add cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon, stirring gently to prevent sticking and allow cheese to melt smoothly.
- Reduce heat and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and sauce to thicken slightly.
- Transfer to serving dishes and garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color and added flavor.
- Serve immediately while hot, enjoying the rich, creamy texture and robust seasoning.
Notes
- Customize your pasta texture by cooking it just under al dente since it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
- Shred chicken quickly by using a stand mixer or two forks for perfectly pulled meat that absorbs more flavor.
- Swap heavy cream with Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lighter version with reduced calories.
- Add extra crunch by topping with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a delightful textural contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 511 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 33 g
- Saturated Fat: 17 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.3 g
- Carbohydrates: 29 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg