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Crack Chicken Penne with Cheddar - Quick Creamy Weeknight Dinner

This creamy pasta dish combines tender chicken, rich cream cheese, zesty ranch seasoning, and melted cheddar cheese for the ultimate comfort food experience that both kids and adults will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, it delivers maximum satisfaction with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 slices beef bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and milk, then stir in ranch seasoning. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Fold in cooked pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, and crumbled beef bacon. Stir until cheese melts and everything is well combined.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Don't overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken for proper browning. Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting. Add veggies like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.