Why Make This Recipe
Crack Chicken Mac and Cheese is a delicious comfort food dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It combines the creamy goodness of mac and cheese with the savory flavors of ranch seasoning, tender chicken, and crispy bacon. This recipe is simple, satisfying, and sure to please both kids and adults alike. If you’re looking for a hearty meal that doesn’t take too much time to prepare, this is it!
How to Make Crack Chicken Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp butter (unsalted)
- 4 tbsp flour
- 1.5 oz ranch mix (such as Hidden Valley)
- 1.75 cups cream
- 1.25 cups milk
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 0.5 lb campanelle pasta
- 1.75 cups shredded chicken
- 0.5 cup crumbled bacon
- 3 tbsp panko breadcrumbs
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- Prepare the chicken and bacon as instructed, and get the cheese and ranch mix ready.
- Boil salted water in a pot and cook the campanelle until it’s al dente, then drain.
- In another pot, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour to create a roux.
- Gradually add the cream and milk while whisking. After that, add the ranch mix and let it simmer until thickened.
- Stir in the cheddar cheese until it melts, then season with black pepper.
- Mix in the cooked pasta, shredded chicken, and crumbled bacon, folding gently to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with panko breadcrumbs, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Let the dish rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Crack Chicken Mac and Cheese
Serve Crack Chicken Mac and Cheese hot from the oven. You can garnish it with extra crumbled bacon or some chopped green onions for a nice touch. It goes well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. Enjoy it as a main dish that everyone will love!
How to Store Crack Chicken Mac and Cheese
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave a portion until it’s warmed through or heat it in the oven at a low temperature.
Tips to Make Crack Chicken Mac and Cheese
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente since it will continue cooking in the oven.
- Use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience and extra flavor.
- Feel free to add more cheese if you want it extra cheesy!
- You can customize the recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
Variation
You can easily customize this dish by using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack. You might also try using different pasta shapes. For a lighter version, consider using whole grain pasta or low-fat cheese.
FAQs
1. Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it right before serving.
3. Is it possible to freeze Crack Chicken Mac and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze this dish. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to three months. Reheat it in the oven after thawing.
