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–+ servings
Crack Chicken Penne

Creamy Crack Chicken Penne for Comfort Food Lovers

Delight in this Creamy Crack Chicken Penne, a comforting dish featuring chicken, cream cheese, and bacon for a family-friendly meal that's easy to prepare.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 lb penne pasta Swap for gluten-free pasta if needed.
For the Chicken Mixture
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Opt for rotisserie chicken for convenience.
  • 8 oz cream cheese Can use lower-fat version.
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix Adjust to personal taste.
  • 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled Use turkey bacon for a leaner option.
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth Low-sodium or homemade offers a healthier choice.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Can substitute with lower-fat cheese.
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions Feel free to replace with chopped parsley.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • large skillet
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water, add 1 lb penne pasta, and cook according to package instructions (10-12 minutes), then drain.
  2. Prepare the Sauce Base: In a large skillet, combine 8 oz cream cheese, 1 packet ranch seasoning mix, and 2 cups chicken broth over medium heat, stirring for about 5 minutes until smooth.
  3. Add Chicken and Bacon: Stir in 2 cups shredded cooked chicken and 1/2 cup crumbled bacon; cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  4. Combine with Pasta: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet; toss everything together for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  5. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese over pasta, cover, and let sit for 2-4 minutes until cheese is melted.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Stir the pasta gently and garnish with 1/4 cup chopped green onions before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freeze portions for up to 2 months; reheat gently with a splash of chicken broth.

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