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One-Pot Crack Chicken Pasta

A close-up of a bowl of creamy Crack chicken pasta topped generously with crispy bacon bits and black pepper.

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A simple, creamy pasta dish made in one pot, featuring chicken, bacon, ranch seasoning, and cheese.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound dry pasta (penne or rotini)
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 packet (1 ounce) dry ranch seasoning mix
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup water (for Instant Pot method)

Instructions

  1. Place the dry pasta, chicken pieces, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth into a large pot or the inner pot of an Instant Pot.
  2. If using a stovetop pot, bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is cooked and liquid is mostly absorbed.
  3. If using an Instant Pot, seal the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 4 minutes. Allow pressure to naturally release for 5 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and cubed cream cheese until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and combined.
  6. Stir in the crumbled bacon.
  7. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For freezer meals, assemble all ingredients except the cream cheese, heavy cream, and shredded cheese in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight, then cook according to stovetop instructions, adding the dairy items at the end.
  • For an Instant Pot version, use 1/2 cup water instead of 1 cup of the chicken broth to prevent a ‘Burn’ notice.

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