This weekend’s weather was a throwback to last month, with unexpectedly colder temperatures and talk of freeze warnings for the area. With that in mind, it was time to pull out some comfort-style food. This time I put the Instant Pot to work, and decided on this simple but tasty dish.
You might be wondering what the word “crack” means in this recipe. I didn’t know myself until a few years ago when I was looking through some soup recipes and came across this one, which I’m proud to say is my daughter’s favorite soup of all time. As I stated then, “crack” refers to using Ranch seasoning in a recipe. I have no idea where the term came from, but it seems to be common enough that I don’t question it.
My taste testers (including my daughter) all agree this one’s a winner, and if you make it I hope you’ll enjoy it as well.
Adapted from Plain Chicken
Instant Pot Crack Chicken Pasta
Description
A simple but tasty meal that uses the power of an Instant Pot to infuse the flavors of Ranch seasoning into every bite.
Adapted from Plain Chicken
Ingredients
Instructions
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Press the Saute button on the Instant Pot and add the oil. When hot, add the chicken and cook 3-4 minutes. The chicken does not need to be cooked through; it will finish cooking under pressure.
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Press Cancel to turn off the Saute function. Add the chicken broth and scrape up any stuck bits off the bottom of the pot to avoid burning. Add the water, pasta, and Ranch seasoning and stir until combined.
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Lock the lid on the Instant Pot and turn the vent valve to Sealing. Press the Pressure Cook button and set the timer to cook for 4 minutes on High pressure.
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At the end of cooking time, allow the Instant Pot to natural release for 10 minutes, then turn the vent valve to Venting to release any remaining pressure. Carefully open the lid, then add the cream cheese, Cheddar cheese, and bacon, stirring until combined. Cover for about 10 minutes to allow the cheeses to melt and blend in. Stir again and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 9
Serving Size approx 2 cups (16 oz)
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 677kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 34.6g54%
- Saturated Fat 18g90%
- Cholesterol 101mg34%
- Sodium 947mg40%
- Potassium 371mg11%
- Total Carbohydrate 58.1g20%
- Dietary Fiber 2.7g11%
- Sugars 3.1g
- Protein 37.1g75%
- Calcium 308 mg
- Iron 3 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Notes
- Ranch seasoning packets are typically 1 ounce each, so the base recipe would need 1 1/2 packets. If using bulk seasoning, 2 tablespoons = 1 ounce.
- Frozen vegetables such as broccoli, peas, or carrots can be added if desired.
- The sauce will thicken as it cools. If reheating leftovers, add a small amount of water or milk to return it to its original consistency.
