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When combined with the cream cheese and ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese melts perfectly into the sauce, making it even creamier and more indulgent. It’s the perfect finishing touch for this hearty, cheesy pasta dish.
### 7. Seasonings and Garlic
To round out the flavor profile of Crack Chicken Penne, seasonings like garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper are essential. Garlic, in particular, enhances the dish with its savory aroma and depth of flavor. Seasonings bring the whole dish together, ensuring that every bite is well-balanced and flavorful.
Adjusting the amount of garlic or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can also give the dish an extra layer of flavor or spice, depending on your personal preferences.
## How to Make Crack Chicken Penne
Now that we’ve explored the ingredients that make Crack Chicken Penne so delicious, let’s walk through how to prepare this indulgent dish. While the recipe is relatively simple, the final product is nothing short of extraordinary. Here’s how to make **Crack Chicken Penne** from scratch:
### Ingredients:
– 1 lb. of chicken breast or thighs (boneless and skinless)
– 12 oz. of penne pasta
– 8 oz. cream cheese (softened)
– 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix (or homemade ranch seasoning)
– 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 6 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup of chicken broth (or more, depending on consistency preference)
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
### Directions:
#### 1. Cook the Pasta
Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package directions. Be sure to cook it until it’s al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly once added to the sauce. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
#### 2. Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and cook them for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and golden brown on the outside. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet, and shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks.
#### 3. Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Next, add the cream cheese to the skillet and let it melt down, stirring to create a smooth sauce. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to achieve the desired sauce consistency. Add the ranch seasoning, and continue to stir until it’s fully incorporated into the sauce.
#### 4. Add Cheese and Bacon
Once the sauce is smooth and creamy, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt and become part of the sauce. Add the cooked bacon crumbles and the shredded chicken to the skillet, mixing everything together until well combined.
#### 5. Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together so the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or ranch seasoning, if desired.
#### 6. Serve and Garnish
Once everything is well-mixed, serve the Crack Chicken Penne in bowls or on plates, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
### Tips for the Perfect Crack Chicken Penne:
– **Creaminess**: If you want your sauce to be extra creamy, add a little extra cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream.
– **Spice it Up**: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat if you prefer a spicier dish.
– **Make it a One-Pot Meal**: To make cleanup easier, you can cook the pasta, chicken, and sauce all in the same large skillet or Dutch oven.
– **Extra Cheese**: If you’re a cheese lover, feel
free to add more shredded cheddar or even some mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
## Conclusion
**Crack Chicken Penne** is an indulgent, comforting, and downright addictive dish that brings together the best of creamy pasta, tender chicken, smoky bacon, and cheesy goodness. It’s a perfect meal for any occasion – from a busy weeknight dinner to a weekend family gathering. With its rich flavor, creamy texture, and hearty ingredients, this dish is bound to become a go-to in your meal rotation.
The beauty of Crack Chicken Penne is its versatility and ability to be customized to fit your tastes. Whether you stick with the classic recipe or add your own personal touch, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that will keep everyone coming back for more.
So, next time you’re craving something indulgent and satisfying, consider whipping up a batch of Crack Chicken Penne. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a creamy, cheesy, and addictively good meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!
