Crack Chicken with Penne (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Main Ingredients
01 -
10 oz penne pasta
02 -
8 slices bacon, chopped
03 -
1 ½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
04 -
Salt, to taste
05 -
Black pepper, to taste
06 -
½ yellow onion, minced
07 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
08 -
2 cups chicken broth
09 -
1 cup sour cream
10 -
4 oz cream cheese
11 -
1 packet dry ranch dressing mix
12 -
1 tsp salt
13 -
1 tsp black pepper
14 -
2 tsp dried parsley
15 -
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
16 -
Chopped green onions, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water. Set aside.
02 -
In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium-high heat until crispy. Remove and set on paper towels to drain excess grease.
03 -
Remove all but 1 tablespoon of bacon grease from the pot. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until browned on all sides.
04 -
Add the minced onion to the pot with the chicken and sauté until the chicken is cooked through and the onion is soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
05 -
Pour in the chicken broth, sour cream, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, salt, pepper, parsley, and the cooked bacon. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
06 -
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked pasta. Mix until everything is well incorporated. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
07 -
Remove from heat and garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
# Notes:
01 -
For a richer flavor, allow the pasta to rest for a few minutes before serving to absorb the sauce fully.