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Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4 from 27 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken breast, smoky bacon, creamy ranch-infused sauce, and melted cheddar cheese combined with penne pasta for a hearty meal that’s easy to make in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Meat and Protein

  • 6 slices bacon
  • 1 lb chicken breast

Seasonings and Spices

  • 1.25 oz ranch seasoning (e.g. Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning mix)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Pasta and Liquids

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 3.5 cups chicken broth

Dairy

  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Herbs

  • 1 tbsp parsley, freshly chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the 6 slices of bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then crumble and set aside. Leave the bacon grease in the skillet.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and add them to the skillet with the bacon grease. Season with garlic powder and cook over medium heat until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add Seasoning and Liquids: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the chicken, then pour in 3.5 cups of chicken broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
  4. Add Pasta and Cream Cheese: Add the 8 oz of penne pasta to the skillet and stir well. Cut the 4 oz of cream cheese into chunks and add to the skillet, stirring until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
  5. Simmer and Cook Pasta: Cover and cook over medium-low heat for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce has thickened.
  6. Add Cheddar and Bacon: Stir in the 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese and the crumbled bacon. Continue cooking until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot for a creamy, cheesy pasta dish bursting with flavor.

Notes

  • For best flavor, use freshly chopped parsley as garnish.
  • You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rotini or fusilli.
  • Adjust ranch seasoning quantity to taste or use a low sodium version if preferred.
  • Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature to help it melt smoothly into the sauce.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/creamy-crack-chicken-pasta-recipe/