Introduction:
Crack Chicken Penne has stormed the kitchen scenes with its irresistible combination of creamy sauce, savory chicken, and satisfying penne pasta. This dish, known for its addictive flavors (hence “crack chicken”), perfectly blends creamy textures with the sharpness of cheddar and smoky hints from bacon, creating a meal that’s a complete crowd-pleaser. Below, we delve into the delightful details of making this indulgent dish that promises to captivate your palate and leave you craving more.
Ingredients Overview:
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this scrumptious dish. Here’s what you’ll need for a successful crack chicken penne:
- Penne Pasta: 1 lb, serves as the hearty base.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, for sautéing.
- Chicken Breast: 1 lb, cut into bite-sized pieces for quick cooking.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: 1 packet (1 oz), provides a burst of flavor.
- Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Smoked Paprika, and Black Pepper: For seasoning the chicken.
- Cream Cheese: 8 oz, softened, to enrich the sauce.
- Chicken Broth and Milk: 1 cup and 1/2 cup respectively, form the creamy sauce.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, adds gooey, melty delight.
- Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and crumbled, for a smoky crunch.
- Green Onions: 1/4 cup, chopped, for a fresh garnish.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside, keeping it warm.
2. Preparing the Chicken:
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the chicken pieces seasoned with ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir and cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is thoroughly browned and cooked through.
3. Making the Sauce:
- To the skillet with the cooked chicken, add the softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and smoothly combined with the chicken. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring consistently. Allow the mixture to come to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes or until the sauce thickens notably.
4. Combining the Elements:
- Add the previously cooked penne pasta directly to the skillet. Gently mix to ensure the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Introduce the shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon into the skillet, combining until the cheese melts and integrates into the dish seamlessly.
5. Serving:
- Finalize the dish by garnishing with chopped green onions. Serve the crack chicken penne hot and enjoy the burst of flavors in each bite!
Nutritional Information:
Each serving of Crack Chicken Penne is packed with flavors and provides approximately 620 calories. This recipe makes enough to serve 6 people, making it perfect for family dinners or gathering meals.
Conclusion:
Crack Chicken Penne is more than just a pasta dish; it’s a symphony of flavors that meld together to deliver comfort in every bite. With its rich, creamy sauce and the perfect blend of spices, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your comfort food cravings. This recipe not only fills the belly but also warms the soul, making it a perfect dish to share with loved ones. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe promises ease of preparation and delicious results. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s make dining an experience to remember with this delightful dish!