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Cheesy Bacon Ranch Crack Chicken Penne – Easy Dinner Idea

Cheesy Bacon Ranch Crack Chicken Penne – Easy Dinner Idea


  • Author: Amelia Sullivan
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in this ultra-creamy and cheesy Bacon Ranch Crack Chicken Penne! Packed with flavor and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish combines tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and a rich cheese sauce. It’s comfort food at its finest!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 6 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ½ cup chicken broth (if needed for creaminess)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  • Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until smooth and creamy.
  • Add the Chicken and Bacon: Stir in the shredded chicken and crumbled turkey bacon. Mix well to coat them in the creamy sauce.
  • Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add ½ cup of chicken broth to loosen it up.
  • Add Cheese and Melt: Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, allowing them to melt into the dish.
  • Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm. Enjoy your ultra-cheesy, creamy, and flavorful Crack Chicken Penne!

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
  • This dish can be prepared ahead of time and reheated for an easy meal later.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: Cheesy Bacon Ranch Crack Chicken Penne, creamy chicken pasta, comfort food, easy dinner recipe, ranch chicken pasta