Crac Chicken Penne: Quick & Creamy Pasta Dinner (Print Version)
Crac Chicken Penne delivers a quick, creamy pasta dinner. Enjoy tender chicken and penne in a rich sauce, perfect for busy weeknights. Easy family meal.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 20 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Penne & Poultry Powerhouse
01 -
12 oz penne pasta
02 -
1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
04 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Creamy Dream Base
05 -
6 oz cream cheese, softened
06 -
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
07 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
→ "Crac" Flavor Boosters
08 -
4 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled
09 -
1 oz packet dry ranch seasoning mix
10 -
3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
→ Fresh Finish & Aromatics
11 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
12 -
1/2 small yellow onion, finely diced
13 -
2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped, for garnish
14 -
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Boil 12 oz penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a separate pan, cook 4 slices bacon until crisp. Crumble the bacon and set aside, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the skillet for later use if desired.
02 -
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil (or reserved bacon fat) in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces, seasoned with salt and black pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
03 -
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 1/2 small yellow onion, finely diced, and 3 cloves garlic, minced. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened. This aromatic base is crucial for your delicious Crac Chicken Penne: Quick & Creamy Pasta Dinner.
04 -
Stir in 6 oz softened cream cheese, 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, and 1/2 cup heavy cream. Whisk until smooth and the cream cheese is fully melted. Add 1 oz packet dry ranch seasoning mix. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, for the perfect Crac Chicken Penne: Quick & Creamy Pasta Dinner sauce.
05 -
Return the cooked 1.5 lbs chicken breast to the skillet. Add the drained 12 oz penne pasta and 3/4 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is well combined and heated through. This creates the rich, comforting texture of your Crac Chicken Penne: Quick & Creamy Pasta Dinner.
06 -
Stir in the crumbled 4 slices bacon. Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped, and 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped. Enjoy your homemade Crac Chicken Penne: Quick & Creamy Pasta Dinner!
# Notes:
01 -
For a richer flavor, consider using full-fat chicken broth. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a subtle kick.
02 -
Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
03 -
This Crac Chicken Penne pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or some warm garlic bread to complete your quick and creamy meal.
04 -
To save time, cook and crumble the bacon ahead of time. You can also dice the onion and mince the garlic in advance.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large pot
02 -
Large skillet or Dutch oven
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups
06 -
Measuring spoons
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 925 kcal
Total Fat: 43 g
Total Carbohydrate: 70 g
Protein: 61 g