Ingredients:
16 oz elbow macaroni
1 (8-oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 (10.75-oz) can cream of chicken soup
1 cup sour cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 (1-oz) packet ranch dressing mix
1½ cups cooked, chopped chicken
½ cup cooked, crumbled turkey bacon
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup milk
Directions:
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Cook the Macaroni:
Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, cream of chicken soup, sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, and ranch dressing mix. Mix until well combined.
Stir in the cooked chicken and turkey bacon.
Combine with Macaroni:
Add the cooked macaroni to the cream cheese mixture and mix well. Pour in the milk and stir until thoroughly combined.
Assemble the Dish:
Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
Bake:
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the dish is bubbly and golden brown on top.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
30 minutes
Total Time:
45 minutes
Servings:
8
Most Popular Questions and Their Answers Related to Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.
Can I freeze Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
Can I use other types of cheese?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup?
You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup as alternatives.
Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds excellent flavor.
What if I don’t have ranch dressing mix?
You can make your own with a combination of dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried chives.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes, adding vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach can enhance the nutritional value.
How do I make it spicier?
Add some diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, turkey bacon works well and is a leaner option.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
Can I use light cream cheese and sour cream?
Yes, using light versions will reduce the overall fat content without compromising too much on flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
Can I add more bacon?
Yes, you can add more bacon for extra flavor.
What can I serve with this dish?
A side salad or steamed vegetables make great accompaniments.
Can I use low-sodium ingredients?
Yes, using low-sodium soup and ranch mix can help control the salt content.
What if the cheese doesn’t melt well?
Make sure to use freshly shredded cheese as pre-shredded often has anti-caking agents that affect melting.
How can I make it more creamy?
Add a little more milk or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
Can I add a crunchy topping?
Yes, adding breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top before baking can add a nice crunch.
30 Secrets to Master the Recipe
Use Fresh Ingredients:
Fresh cheese, chicken, and pasta will yield the best results.
Cook Pasta Al Dente:
Ensure the pasta is slightly undercooked as it will continue cooking in the oven.
Properly Soften Cream Cheese:
Softened cream cheese mixes better, ensuring a smooth sauce.
Mix Well:
Thoroughly mix the sauce ingredients to prevent clumps.
Use a High-Quality Ranch Mix:
A good quality ranch mix will enhance the flavor significantly.
Pre-Cook Chicken:
Use cooked chicken to save time and ensure it’s fully cooked.
Crisp the Bacon:
Ensure bacon is crispy before adding to the mixture for the best texture.
Season Chicken Well:
Season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking for added flavor.
Gradually Add Milk:
Gradually mix in the milk to ensure a smooth consistency.
Shred Cheese Fresh:
Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
Taste the Sauce:
Taste the sauce before mixing with pasta and adjust seasoning as needed.
Use Sharp Cheddar:
Sharp cheddar adds a more pronounced cheese flavor.
Let Cheese Reach Room Temp:
Cheese at room temperature melts more smoothly.
Don’t Overcook:
Bake until just bubbly and golden to prevent drying out.
Rest Before Serving:
Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to set.
Use a Deep Dish:
A deep baking dish prevents overflow and allows even cooking.
Spray Dish Well:
Use cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Adjust Consistency:
If the mixture seems too thick, add a bit more milk.
Add Herbs:
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the dish.
Serve Hot:
Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Customize Toppings:
Customize with toppings like crushed chips or breadcrumbs for extra texture.
Use Quality Pasta:
Good quality pasta holds up better in casseroles.
Try Different Meats:
Substitute with turkey or ham for variation.
Use Full-Fat Dairy:
Full-fat dairy products ensure a richer, creamier sauce.
Watch the Oven:
Keep an eye on the oven to prevent over-browning.
Mix Gently:
Mix the pasta gently to avoid breaking the noodles.
Cool Sauce Slightly:
Let the sauce cool slightly before mixing with pasta to thicken.
Layer Ingredients:
Layer ingredients evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
Experiment with Spices:
Add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for extra kick.
Enjoy the Process:
Have fun and adjust the recipe to your taste preferences!