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Crack Chicken Penne One Pot Pasta

  • Author: Ava Garrison
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: One Pot Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with crispy bacon, this Crack Chicken Penne One Pot Pasta is the ultimate comfort food dinner. Tender chicken, ranch seasoning, melted cheddar cheese, and perfectly cooked penne pasta come together in one pot for an easy recipe the whole family will love. This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family meals, meal prep, and anyone searching for satisfying food ideas with minimal cleanup.


Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 chicken breasts, diced

8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

3 cups chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 packet ranch seasoning mix

8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cubed

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

12 ounces penne pasta

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1/4 teaspoon salt


Instructions

1. Cook the bacon in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and reserve a small amount of bacon grease in the pot.

2. Add butter and diced onion to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add the diced chicken breast and season lightly with salt and black pepper. Cook until lightly browned.

5. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in the ranch seasoning mix.

6. Add the uncooked penne pasta and stir well so the pasta is mostly submerged in the liquid.

7. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes while stirring occasionally.

8. Stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.

9. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese while stirring continuously until creamy.

10. Return the crispy bacon to the pot and mix everything together.

11. Simmer uncovered for several more minutes until the sauce thickens.

12. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.


Notes

Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for the smoothest and creamiest sauce.

Stir the pasta occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Add a splash of chicken broth or milk when reheating leftovers to keep the sauce creamy.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 680
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 1120mg
  • Fat: 39g
  • Saturated Fat: 19g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 16g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 43g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 145mg

Keywords: crack chicken pasta, one pot pasta, creamy chicken pasta, easy dinner recipe, cheesy pasta recipe, comfort food, bacon ranch pasta, family dinner ideas