why make this recipe
Easy Crack Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta into one comforting meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. The blend of flavors is satisfying, and you can whip it up in no time. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish topped with bacon and cheese?
how to make Easy Crack Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.
- Season cubed chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. In the same skillet using bacon drippings, cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to low. Add cream cheese and milk to the skillet, stirring constantly until smooth.
- Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and shredded cheddar cheese. Let the cheese melt completely into the sauce.
- Add the crumbled bacon and cooked chicken back into the sauce. Stir to combine.
- Fold in the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated.
- Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve hot.
how to serve Easy Crack Chicken Pasta
Serve Easy Crack Chicken Pasta hot. It pairs well with a simple green salad or some garlic bread. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top for cheesier goodness.
how to store Easy Crack Chicken Pasta
Store leftover Easy Crack Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Easy Crack Chicken Pasta
- Make sure to not overcook the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture.
- For a little kick, you can add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce.
- Use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken to save time.
variation
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by using beans or veggies instead of chicken. You can also swap out the bacon for a vegetarian bacon alternative.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like, such as rotini, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge for a day before baking. Just add a little extra milk when reheating if it seems dry.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
You can make your own by mixing equal parts of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and parsley. Adjust to your taste!