Crack Chicken Penne

Ingredients:

• 1 lb penne pasta
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3/4 cup bacon, cooked and chopped
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Cook Penne Pasta: Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.
3. Prepare the Sauce: Reduce heat to low, add cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix, stirring until smooth and creamy.
4. Combine Ingredients: Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce is well combined.
5. Add Chicken and Bacon: Add shredded chicken, half of the cooked bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cheese is melted and the ingredients are well mixed.
6. Mix with Penne: Combine the cooked penne with the creamy chicken mixture, mixing thoroughly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 689 kcal
Servings: 6 servings

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

1. Garnish for Appeal: Before serving, garnish with extra crispy bacon bits and chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and visual appeal.
2. Accompaniments: Pair with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance out the rich, creamy pasta. A side of garlic bread can also complement the dish nicely.
3. Portion Size: Serve in generous portions for a hearty meal. This recipe yields 6 servings, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Store leftover Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the leftovers in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before warming.
3. Reheating: Reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also use a microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
4. Avoid Overcooking: When reheating, be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy. Heat just until warmed through.

By following these tips, you can enjoy your Crack Chicken Penne even after the initial meal, maintaining its delicious flavor and creamy texture!

Variations:

1. Vegetable Additions:
   • Spinach or Kale: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale for added nutrition and color. Add it to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking until wilted.
   • Bell Peppers: Dice and sauté bell peppers along with the onion and garlic for a pop of color and extra crunch.
2. Different Proteins:
   • Ground Turkey or Beef: Swap the shredded chicken for ground turkey or beef for a different take on the recipe. Cook the meat separately before adding it to the sauce.
   • Sausage: Use cooked sausage, such as Italian or smoked sausage, for a flavorful twist. Slice and add it to the skillet along with the chicken.
3. Cheese Varieties:
   • Pepper Jack: For a spicy kick, use pepper jack cheese instead of sharp cheddar.
   • Parmesan: Mix in some grated Parmesan cheese for a tangy, nutty flavor.
4. Low-Carb Option:
   • Zucchini Noodles: Replace penne pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles for a lower-carb alternative.
   • Cauliflower Rice: Use cauliflower rice for a grain-free version that still provides a satisfying texture.
5. Flavor Enhancements:
   • Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
   • Herbs: Incorporate additional herbs such as thyme, basil, or rosemary to the sauce for a different flavor profile.
6. Creamy Alternatives:
   • Greek Yogurt: Substitute some or all of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy twist.
   • Coconut Milk: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free version with a hint of coconut flavor.
7. Garnish Variations:
   • Green Onions: Top with sliced green onions for added freshness.
   • Crushed Red Pepper: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top for a bit of heat and texture.
8. Buffalo Chicken Penne:
   • Add 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce to the cream cheese mixture for a spicy, tangy twist. Top with crumbled blue cheese and extra buffalo sauce for serving.
9. BBQ Chicken Penne:
   • Substitute the ranch seasoning with 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce. Add some sautéed bell peppers and onions for a smoky, sweet flavor profile.
10. Mediterranean Chicken Penne:
    • Swap the cheddar cheese for crumbled feta and add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and spinach. Season with oregano and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
11. Pesto Chicken Penne:
    • Replace the ranch seasoning with 1/4 cup of pesto sauce. Stir in some cherry tomatoes and top with grated Parmesan for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
12. Mexican Chicken Penne:
    • Use taco seasoning instead of ranch and mix in black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes. Top with shredded Mexican blend cheese and serve with sour cream and cilantro.

Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect version of Crack Chicken Penne!

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   • Yes, you can use other pasta shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or rotini. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions.
2. Can I make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. Cook and assemble the pasta, then store it in the refrigerator. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
3. How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
   • To reheat, warm the pasta on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally for even heating. You can also use a microwave, stirring every 30 seconds.
4. Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne?
   • Yes, you can freeze it. Store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
5. What can I use instead of ranch seasoning mix?
   • If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can use Italian seasoning, a combination of dried herbs, or make a homemade ranch seasoning blend.
6. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
   • Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great option and adds extra flavor to the dish. Just shred it and use it in place of cooked chicken.
7. Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
   • Yes, use dairy-free cream cheese and cheese alternatives. You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream.
8. Can I make this recipe spicier?
   • Yes, add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños to the sauce to increase the heat level.
9. How do I make Crack Chicken Penne vegetarian?
   • Omit the chicken and bacon. You can add extra vegetables or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
10. Can I use low-fat or reduced-fat ingredients?
    • Yes, you can substitute reduced-fat cream cheese and cheese. However, the dish may be less creamy and rich compared to using full-fat versions.