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Ultimate Crack Chicken Penne - Quick Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta

This crack chicken penne combines tender chicken, creamy ranch sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta in one incredible dish. With simple ingredients and just 30 minutes from start to finish, this is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you need something comforting and delicious.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb halal boneless chicken breast, cubed
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup ranch seasoning mix (alcohol-free)
  • 1 cup shredded mild cheddar cheese
  • ½ cup beef bacon bits (halal)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • ½ cup milk
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Add onions and garlic, cooking until softened.
  3. Reduce heat to medium. Add cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and milk to the skillet. Stir until cream cheese melts and forms a smooth sauce. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  4. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet along with beef bacon bits. Stir to combine. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cover until cheese melts.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

For the creamiest results, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the pan. This helps it melt evenly into the sauce without clumping. For extra flavor, you can substitute half the chicken broth with vegetable broth.