Creamy Chicken Penne
This creamy chicken penne pasta is comforting, rich, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. With tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a cheesy, velvety sauce, it's a cozy classic made simple.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta cooked al dente
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken leftover or rotisserie
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 0.75 cup cooked bacon chopped
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Drain and reserve a small cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until onion is soft and translucent.
- Reduce heat. Stir in cream cheese and ranch seasoning until smooth and creamy.
- Slowly pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir until sauce is smooth and begins to thicken.
- Add shredded chicken, half of the bacon, and cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese melts and everything is combined.
- Add the cooked penne. Toss to coat. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Garnish with remaining bacon and fresh parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese and room temperature cream cheese for the smoothest sauce. Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for a veggie boost. This dish reheats well with a splash of broth or milk.
Nutrition
Calories: 690kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 38gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 19gCholesterol: 155mgSodium: 960mgPotassium: 520mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 950IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 180mgIron: 2.1mg
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