Crack Chicken Pasta
A warm, cheesy pasta that combines melty cream cheese, tangy ranch, smoky bacon, and tender chicken tossed with penne for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta ingredients
- 8 oz. pasta (penne or rotini) Cook according to package instructions until al dente.
Main ingredients
- 1 lb. chicken breasts, cooked and shredded Rotisserie chicken is an easy shortcut.
- 8 oz. cream cheese, softened Full-fat for the creamiest texture.
- 1 cup ranch dressing Use high-quality bottled or homemade ranch.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded Choose a sharp cheddar for best flavor.
- 1/2 cup bacon, cooked and crumbled Reserve some for topping if desired.
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced Provides a fresh contrast.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust seasoning based on bacon and cheese saltiness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream cheese and ranch dressing until smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and green onions. Mix well.
- Combine the pasta with the chicken mixture and stir until everything is evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm and enjoy your comforting meal!
Notes
This dish is great for meal prep and leftovers. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days or freeze for longer storage.