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Crack Chicken Penne

Ultra-creamy penne pasta loaded with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese in a rich, savory sauce. Comfort food that’s quick, cozy, and crowd-pleasing.
Prep Time: 15 minutesCook Time: 25 minutesTotal Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6Course: Main CourseCuisine: American

Print Recipe
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • For the Pasta
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • Salt for boiling water
  • For the Chicken & Bacon
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, diced
  • 6 slices bacon chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 small onion finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 8 oz cream cheese softened
  • ¾ cup chicken broth
  • 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon ranch-style seasoning optional
  • Optional Garnish
  • Green onions or parsley chopped

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
  3. Cook the Bacon
  4. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving a little bacon fat in the pan.
  5. Cook the Chicken
  6. Add olive oil if needed. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  7. Build the Sauce
  8. In the same skillet, sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth.
  9. Combine
  10. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet. Stir until well coated.
  11. Finish with Cheese
  12. Add shredded cheddar (and ranch seasoning if using). Stir until melted and creamy. Add pasta water as needed.
  13. Serve
  14. Garnish and serve warm.