Crack Chicken Penne Recipe: A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Delight Recipe
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, flavor-packed pasta dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection and tossed with penne pasta in a rich, cheesy ranch-flavored sauce. Enhanced with cream cheese, sharp cheddar, and a touch of chicken broth, this recipe offers a comforting and satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 12 ounces whole wheat or regular penne pasta
- Salt, for pasta water
Sauce
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 packet (about 1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Create the Sauce: Lower the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix into the skillet with the chicken. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
- Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt into the sauce.
- Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the crack chicken penne to serving plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a lighter sauce, substitute with low-fat cream cheese or reduce the amount used.
- Add fresh herbs like thyme or chives for enhanced flavor and freshness.
- Incorporate vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to increase nutrients without sacrificing taste.
- Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra cheesy kick.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to avoid any food safety issues; internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Keywords: Crack chicken penne, creamy chicken pasta, ranch chicken pasta, cheesy chicken penne, quick chicken dinner
