Crack Chicken Penne: Quick Creamy Dinner Adventure
Crack Chicken Penne: Quick Creamy Dinner Adventure
Get ready to fall in love with this incredible creamy chicken penne that combines tender chicken, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and savory beef bacon in one comforting bowl. This dinner comes together in just 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need something both delicious and easy.
If you enjoy creamy pasta dishes, you’ll also love our Marry Me Chicken Pasta with its rich sun-dried tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 4 oz beef bacon, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef Bacon and Chicken
In a large skillet, cook the beef bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Reduce heat to medium-low and add garlic to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds, then add cream cheese, ranch seasoning, chicken broth, and milk. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Step 3: Combine with Pasta
Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet along with the crispy beef bacon. Stir everything together until well combined. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and cover until melted.
For another fantastic creamy dinner option, try our Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta.
Expert Tips
- Pasta Prep: Cook pasta al dente since it will continue cooking in the sauce.
- Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheese combinations like Monterey Jack or pepper jack.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sauce ahead and combine with pasta when ready to serve.
- Creamy Consistency: If sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth.
Looking for more family-friendly pasta recipes? Check out our Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake.
FAQ
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle pasta.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
What can I substitute for ranch seasoning?
Mix your own with dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
For another crowd-pleasing dish, try our Best Broccoli Salad Recipe.
Crack Chicken Penne: Quick Creamy Dinner Adventure
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the beef bacon and chicken – In a large skillet, cook the beef bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pan. Add the cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the creamy sauce – Reduce heat to medium-low and add garlic to the skillet. Cook for 30 seconds, then add cream cheese, ranch seasoning, chicken broth, and milk. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
- Combine with pasta – Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet along with the crispy beef bacon. Stir everything together until well combined. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and cover until melted.
