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BAKED CRACK CHICKEN PENNE centered hero view, clean and uncluttered
Thomas Baker

Baked Crack Chicken Penne: Easy Irresistible Recipe

This Baked Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy crack chicken pasta bake that layers cheesy comfort and zesty ranch flavors into a crowd-pleasing dish. Perfect as an easy crack chicken penne casserole or a cheesy crack chicken penne bake, it's an addictive bacon ranch chicken penne that brings warmth and homestyle goodness to your table.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup bacon bits
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Heat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Prepare the penne pasta according to the package directions until just tender, then drain well.
  3. In a large bowl, blend together the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese until silky smooth.
  4. Stir in the shredded chicken, bacon bits, and chopped green onions, seasoning with salt and pepper as you like.
  5. Carefully fold the cooked penne into the mixture, ensuring every piece is coated.
  6. Spread the pasta mixture evenly into a greased 9x13-inch baking pan and top with the shredded mozzarella.
  7. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese on top bubbles and takes on a golden hue.
  8. Allow the casserole to cool briefly before serving, and sprinkle extra green onions over the dish if you like.

Notes

  • For a little heat, mix in diced jalapeños or a few drops of hot sauce with the cheese blend. Try swapping cheddar for Colby Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different twist. To lighten this dish, replace some cream cheese with Greek yogurt and toss in steamed broccoli or spinach for extra veggies.