Whip Up This Baked Crack Chicken Penne for a Family Feast!

Introduction to Baked Crack Chicken Penne

When it comes to comforting family dinners, few dishes can rival the irresistible flavors of Baked Crack Chicken Penne. This rich, creamy, and cheesy pasta bake is a true crowd-pleaser, blending the beloved flavors of “crack chicken” with the heartiness of penne pasta. With its easy preparation and mouthwatering combination of ingredients, it’s no wonder this dish has become a beloved staple in households across the country.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Baked Crack Chicken Penne

To create this delectable Baked Crack Chicken Penne, you’ll need a simple list of ingredients that come together to form a flavor-packed masterpiece. At the heart of the dish are 12 ounces of penne pasta, which provides the perfect vessel for the creamy, cheesy sauce. Two cups of cooked, shredded chicken add heartiness and protein, while 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of ranch dressing, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese create the irresistibly creamy base.

To amplify the flavors, you’ll also need 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup of bacon bits, and 2 chopped green onions. Finally, a dash of salt and pepper to taste brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony. Feel free to experiment with substitutions, such as using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a slightly lighter version, or adding in your favorite vegetables to boost the nutritional value.

Step-by-Step Directions

Preparing Baked Crack Chicken Penne is a straightforward process that yields incredible results. Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, then drain and set it aside.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix the ingredients until they’re smooth and well-blended. Now, add the cooked, shredded chicken, bacon bits, and chopped green onions to the mixture, stirring until everything is evenly distributed. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.

Gently fold the cooked penne pasta into the creamy chicken mixture, ensuring that all the pasta is well-coated. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Bake the Baked Crack Chicken Penne in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Once it’s out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. If desired, garnish with additional chopped green onions for a fresh and vibrant finishing touch.

Tips for Perfecting Your Baked Crack Chicken Penne

To take your Baked Crack Chicken Penne to the next level, consider these helpful tips and suggestions:

• For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a teaspoon or two of garlic powder or onion powder to the cream cheese mixture.
• If you’re a fan of spice, incorporate some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to give the dish a delightful kick.
• Swap out the penne pasta for a different shape, such as cavatappi or rigatoni, for a fun twist on the classic.
• Pair the Baked Crack Chicken Penne with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information

Baked Crack Chicken Penne is a hearty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed as part of a balanced diet. Each serving (approximately 1/6 of the recipe) contains approximately 550 calories, 32 grams of fat, 37 grams of carbohydrates, and 31 grams of protein. It’s important to note that the exact nutritional values may vary depending on the specific brands and portions of the ingredients used.

For those following a gluten-free diet, you can easily substitute the penne pasta for a gluten-free alternative, such as brown rice or chickpea pasta, to make this dish suitable for your dietary needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the ingredients in crack chicken penne pasta?

The main ingredients in Baked Crack Chicken Penne are: 12 oz penne pasta, 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken, 8 oz softened cream cheese, 1 cup ranch dressing, 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup bacon bits, and 2 chopped green onions. Salt and pepper are added to taste.

What does crack chicken taste like?

Crack chicken, and by extension Baked Crack Chicken Penne, has a rich, creamy, and indulgent flavor profile. The combination of the cream cheese, ranch dressing, and cheddar cheese creates a decadent, almost addictive taste that many people compare to the effect of “crack” – hence the name “crack chicken.” It’s a comforting, satisfying, and utterly delicious dish.

Why is my crack chicken runny?

If your Baked Crack Chicken Penne turns out runny, there are a few possible reasons:

• The cream cheese wasn’t thoroughly softened and incorporated into the other ingredients, resulting in a thinner, more watery consistency.
• The pasta was overcooked, releasing excess starch and creating a thinner sauce.
• Too much ranch dressing was used, thinning out the overall texture of the dish.

To avoid a runny consistency, be sure to fully soften the cream cheese, cook the pasta al dente, and use the recommended amounts of each ingredient. Adjusting the ratios or adding a bit more cheese can help thicken the mixture if needed.

What goes well with crack chicken for dinner?

Baked Crack Chicken Penne is a wonderfully versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes and accompaniments. Some great options to serve alongside it include:

• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing
• Roasted broccoli or Brussels sprouts
• Garlic bread or dinner rolls
• Steamed or roasted asparagus
• A simple side of sautéed vegetables

The creamy, indulgent nature of the Baked Crack Chicken Penne pairs beautifully with lighter, crisp, or crunchy side dishes to create a balanced and satisfying meal.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• BBQ Bacon Mac and Cheese Skillet
• Loaded Cheesy Chicken and Rice Bake
• Bacon Ranch Loaded Potato Casserole
• Buffalo Chicken Mac and Cheese Skillet

Conclusion

Baked Crack Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food dish that’s sure to delight your family and friends. With its irresistible blend of creamy, cheesy, and bacony flavors, this pasta bake is a true crowd-pleaser that’s easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re in the mood for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend feast, Baked Crack Chicken Penne is a recipe that’s sure to become a new household favorite.

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

Print