Chicken Penne

A rich and creamy Chicken Penne dish brings warmth and comfort to any table, enveloping your senses with its savory aroma and indulgent texture. This easy-to-make recipe takes just about 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner choice that satisfies cravings and delights the palate.

This recipe is ideal for busy families, casual gatherings, or a cozy date night. You can easily whip it up in advance and store it in the fridge for up to three days, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy sauce delivers a luscious mouthfeel with every bite.
• Each serving is packed with protein from the chicken and bacon.
• It’s a one-pan wonder, saving you time on cleanup.
• The combination of ranch seasoning and cheddar provides a unique spin.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your Chicken Penne masterpiece:

For the Pasta

• 1 lb penne pasta

For the Chicken Mixture

• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3/4 cup bacon, cooked and chopped

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnishing

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Chicken: rotisserie chicken works great.
• Bacon: turkey bacon is a lighter alternative.
• Ranch seasoning: homemade ranch mix is an option.
• Heavy cream: use half-and-half for less richness.

How to Make It

Create this delicious dish in just a few simple steps:

Cook the Pasta

Boil penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Onion and Garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Make the Creamy Base

Lower the heat to low, then add the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix to the skillet. Stir until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Add Broth and Cream

Gradually pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and well blended.

Mix in Chicken, Bacon, and Cheese

Add the shredded chicken, half of the cooked bacon, and the shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts and all ingredients are well incorporated.

Combine with Pasta

Add the cooked penne to the creamy chicken mixture, tossing until the pasta is well coated with the rich sauce.

Garnish and Serve

Transfer to serving plates and garnish with the remaining bacon bits and freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Store It

Fridge: store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: no, cream sauce doesn’t freeze well.
Reheat: in a microwave for 1-2 minutes or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing.
• Adjust seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
• Don’t skip on garnishing; fresh parsley adds vital flavor and color.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a simple green salad for balance.
• Enjoy alongside garlic bread for a comforting meal.
• Serve at a family gathering to impress guests.