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Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta

Creamy chicken penne with shredded chicken, bacon, parsley, and black pepper in a modern white ceramic bowl on a bright white marble surface, showing glossy cheese sauce and tender pasta texture.
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Creamy Chicken Penne Pasta combines tender chicken, smoky bacon, penne, cheddar, and ranch seasoning in a rich cream cheese sauce. It comes together in about 30 mins for an easy, comforting family dinner with plenty of creamy, savory flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 3/4 cup cooked bacon, chopped
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne for 8 to 10 mins, or until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Cook the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook for 3 to 4 mins, until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
  3. Build the creamy base: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning for 2 to 3 mins, until smooth.
  4. Finish the sauce: Slowly stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Cook gently for 2 to 3 mins, until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
  5. Add chicken and cheese: Stir in the shredded chicken, half of the bacon, and the cheddar. Cook for about 3 mins, stirring until the chicken is hot and the cheese has melted.
  6. Combine and serve: Add the drained penne and toss until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper, then top with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley.

Notes

Keep the heat low once the cream cheese and cheddar are added so the sauce stays smooth. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days and reheat gently with a splash of chicken broth or water. The pasta can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the sauce and pasta may soften slightly after thawing.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy chicken penne

Find it online: https://cozyhomeplate.com/creamy-chicken-penne-pasta/