If you’re looking for a comforting, creamy dish that can elevate any meal, look no further than Decadent Creamy Crack Chicken Penne. This delightful recipe brings together tender penne pasta coated in a rich, creamy sauce with savory chicken and crispy turkey bacon—perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or even potlucks. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also a versatile dish that you can customize according to your family’s taste preferences. Let’s dive into the details of this mouth-watering recipe that’s sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
Decadent Creamy Crack Chicken Penne is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick weeknight dinner or someone who loves to entertain friends and family, this dish fits perfectly into your culinary needs. It’s rich with flavor, yet simple to execute, making it a great choice for both seasoned cooks and kitchen novices alike.
A Delectable, Comforting Dish
The rich flavors and creamy texture of Decadent Creamy Crack Chicken Penne truly make it stand out. The combination of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning creates a heavenly sauce that clings perfectly to the penne pasta. Meanwhile, the shredded chicken adds protein, making it filling and satisfying. The crispy turkey bacon sprinkled on top adds a delightful crunch, completing this comfort food masterpiece.
Perfect for Gatherings
This dish is ideal for family meals and entertaining guests. Its creamy texture and robust flavors make it a sure hit for any occasion. You can serve it alongside a fresh salad or garlic bread, and watch as everyone goes back for seconds. When you’re hosting friends or family, this recipe will take center stage and leave your guests raving about your cooking skills!
Quick and Easy
Time is valuable, especially during busy weeknights. With minimal prep time and straightforward ingredients, Decadent Creamy Crack Chicken Penne can be prepared in about 35 minutes. The ease of finding these ingredients makes the dish accessible for everyone. Perfect for those who want a hearty meal without the hassle, this recipe will become a staple in your weeknight rotation.
How to Make Decadent Creamy Crack Chicken Penne
Let’s walk through the steps to make this delightful dish. Follow these easy instructions, and you’ll serve up a delicious meal in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- Water for boiling
- Salt for pasta water
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 3/4 cup turkey bacon, cooked and chopped (divided)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside. Tip: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed!
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Mini-tip: Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
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Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Add the cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix to the skillet, stirring until the cream cheese is smooth and well-blended with the spices.
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Add Liquid Ingredients: Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream while stirring continuously. Keep mixing until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the shredded chicken, half of the cooked turkey bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and everything is well-combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked penne to the skillet, gently stirring until all the pasta is coated with the creamy chicken mixture. Tip: Add more reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
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Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with the remaining turkey bacon and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness!
How to Serve Decadent Creamy Crack Chicken Penne
Serving this dish is just as fun as making it! Pair your Decadent Creamy Crack Chicken Penne with a crisp Caesar salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. To make it visually appealing, consider garnishing with extra turkey bacon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This dish is best served hot, so consider letting it sit for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld beautifully before diving in.
How to Store Decadent Creamy Crack Chicken Penne
If you have leftovers (which is unlikely, but worth mentioning!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. When reheating, the stovetop is your best option to retain that creamy texture. Just add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce while warming over low heat.
Tips to Make Decadent Creamy Crack Chicken Penne
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Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a dash of garlic powder or Cajun seasoning to the sauce mixture.
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Texture Variation: If you’re craving a bit of crunch, add some toasted breadcrumbs on top just before serving.
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Dietary Adjustments: If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, swap out cream cheese for Greek yogurt or use whole wheat pasta for added fiber.
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Vegetarian Option: As a variation, you can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas for a delicious vegetarian take on this dish.
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Spice it Up: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauté for an exciting kick.
Variations
This recipe is flexible! You can easily adapt it to fit various diets or flavors. Want a gluten-free option? Use gluten-free penne! Craving different flavors? Experiment by adding veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Adjust cooking techniques to accommodate different tastes, and you’re bound to keep things exciting in the kitchen.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still deliver a delicious flavor in this dish.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Swap out regular penne for gluten-free pasta. Additionally, make sure your chicken broth and ranch seasoning are gluten-free.
Can I freeze this dish for later? Yes, you can freeze Decadent Creamy Crack Chicken Penne! Just make sure to store it in airtight containers and label for easy identification.
Conclusion
Decadent Creamy Crack Chicken Penne is more than a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings people together. With its rich flavors, creamy sauce, and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and dive into this delightful recipe—you won’t regret it! Enjoy every creamy, savory bite!