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Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 727 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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

Find it online: https://cheframi.com/crack-chicken-penne-recipe/