Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
Introduction
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that combines tender chicken, penne pasta, and a rich ranch-infused cream cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this comforting meal is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Dice the chicken breasts and season with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Step 4: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use low-fat cream cheese or less cream cheese for a lighter sauce.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or chives to brighten the flavor.
- Incorporate vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving for additional flavor.
- Whole wheat penne can be used to increase fiber content.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dish for up to 3 months. When reheating, warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
What is Crack Chicken Penne?
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy pasta dish made with tender chicken, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and penne pasta. The rich sauce and savory flavors make it a comforting and indulgent meal.
Can I make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish fully and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it before serving for the best taste.
Can I make it healthier?
Absolutely. Use whole-grain penne for added fiber and substitute low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt to cut down on fat while keeping the creamy texture.
PrintCrack Chicken Penne Recipe
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, comforting pasta dish featuring tender chicken breasts, al dente penne pasta, and a rich sauce made with cream cheese and ranch seasoning. This flavorful dish combines sharp cheddar cheese and chicken broth to create a luscious sauce that’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual family meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta (whole wheat or regular)
Sauce
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 ounce)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, approximately 10-12 minutes according to package instructions. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and black pepper. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides and fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Create the Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix to the cooked chicken. Stir to combine, then gradually pour in the chicken broth, continuing to stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce and chicken. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta in the skillet. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts into the sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the Crack Chicken Penne to serving plates. Optionally garnish with fresh parsley or herbs of choice and serve warm.
Notes
- For a lighter sauce, use low-fat cream cheese or reduce the amount used.
- Fresh herbs such as thyme, chives, or parsley can add brightness and depth of flavor.
- Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to increase nutrients and add texture.
- Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving for extra flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce.
Keywords: Crack Chicken Penne, creamy chicken pasta, ranch chicken pasta, quick dinner, comfort food, easy weeknight meal
