Crack Chicken Macaroni

Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese 🧀

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:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
2. Cook the Macaroni:
   • Cook the macaroni according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. 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.
4. Combine with Macaroni:
   • Add the cooked macaroni to the cream cheese mixture and mix well. Pour in the milk and stir until thoroughly combined.
5. Assemble the Dish:
   • Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top with the shredded sharp cheddar cheese.
6. 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

1. Can I use different pasta shapes?
   • Yes, you can substitute elbow macaroni with other pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells.
2. 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.
3. Can I freeze Crack Chicken Macaroni and Cheese?
   • Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.
4. Can I use other types of cheese?
   • Absolutely! Feel free to mix and match cheeses like gouda, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.
5. Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup?
   • You can use cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup as alternatives.
6. Can I use rotisserie chicken?
   • Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds excellent flavor.
7. 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.
8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?
   • Yes, adding vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach can enhance the nutritional value.
9. How do I make it spicier?
   • Add some diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.
10. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
    • Yes, turkey bacon works well and is a leaner option.
11. Can I make it gluten-free?
    • Use gluten-free pasta and a gluten-free cream of chicken soup.
12. 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.
13. How do I store leftovers?
    • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
14. How do I reheat leftovers?
    • Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
15. Can I add more bacon?
    • Yes, you can add more bacon for extra flavor.
16. What can I serve with this dish?
    • A side salad or steamed vegetables make great accompaniments.
17. Can I use low-sodium ingredients?
    • Yes, using low-sodium soup and ranch mix can help control the salt content.
18. 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.
19. How can I make it more creamy?
    • Add a little more milk or cream cheese for extra creaminess.
20. 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

1. Use Fresh Ingredients:
   • Fresh cheese, chicken, and pasta will yield the best results.
2. Cook Pasta Al Dente:
   • Ensure the pasta is slightly undercooked as it will continue cooking in the oven.
3. Properly Soften Cream Cheese:
   • Softened cream cheese mixes better, ensuring a smooth sauce.
4. Mix Well:
   • Thoroughly mix the sauce ingredients to prevent clumps.
5. Use a High-Quality Ranch Mix:
   • A good quality ranch mix will enhance the flavor significantly.
6. Pre-Cook Chicken:
   • Use cooked chicken to save time and ensure it’s fully cooked.
7. Crisp the Bacon:
   • Ensure bacon is crispy before adding to the mixture for the best texture.
8. Season Chicken Well:
   • Season the chicken with salt and pepper before cooking for added flavor.
9. Gradually Add Milk:
   • Gradually mix in the milk to ensure a smooth consistency.
10. Shred Cheese Fresh:
    • Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded.
11. Taste the Sauce:
    • Taste the sauce before mixing with pasta and adjust seasoning as needed.
12. Use Sharp Cheddar:
    • Sharp cheddar adds a more pronounced cheese flavor.
13. Let Cheese Reach Room Temp:
    • Cheese at room temperature melts more smoothly.
14. Don’t Overcook:
    • Bake until just bubbly and golden to prevent drying out.
15. Rest Before Serving:
    • Let the dish sit for a few minutes before serving to set.
16. Use a Deep Dish:
    • A deep baking dish prevents overflow and allows even cooking.
17. Spray Dish Well:
    • Use cooking spray to prevent sticking.
18. Adjust Consistency:
    • If the mixture seems too thick, add a bit more milk.
19. Add Herbs:
    • Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can brighten up the dish.
20. Serve Hot:
    • Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
21. Customize Toppings:
    • Customize with toppings like crushed chips or breadcrumbs for extra texture.
22. Use Quality Pasta:
    • Good quality pasta holds up better in casseroles.
23. Try Different Meats:
    • Substitute with turkey or ham for variation.
24. Use Full-Fat Dairy:
    • Full-fat dairy products ensure a richer, creamier sauce.
25. Watch the Oven:
    • Keep an eye on the oven to prevent over-browning.
26. Mix Gently:
    • Mix the pasta gently to avoid breaking the noodles.
27. Cool Sauce Slightly:
    • Let the sauce cool slightly before mixing with pasta to thicken.
28. Layer Ingredients:
    • Layer ingredients evenly for consistent flavor in every bite.
29. Experiment with Spices:
    • Add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for extra kick.
30. Enjoy the Process:
    • Have fun and adjust the recipe to your taste preferences!