The aroma of Crack Chicken Penne wafts through the kitchen, hugging your senses like a warm blanket on a cold winter night. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, creating a culinary masterpiece that sings with flavor and comfort. Ultimate Comfort Food Mashed Potatoes Cajun Chicken Pasta Variation. For more inspiration, check out this Ranch Chicken Recipe recipe.
Picture this: It’s a rainy Sunday afternoon, and you’re curled up on the couch watching your favorite movie. The only thing that could make this moment better is a big bowl of Crack Chicken Penne. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, promising to leave everyone asking for seconds—and maybe even thirds. For more inspiration, check out this Potsticker Noodle Bowls recipe.
[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] The ease of preparation makes this recipe perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor. Its rich, creamy taste will have everyone raving about dinner. The stunning presentation of the dish will impress even the pickiest eaters at your table. You can customize it with seasonal veggies or spices to match your taste preferences. [/info_box]
I remember the first time I made Crack Chicken Penne; my friends devoured it in minutes and declared me the “Pasta Queen” for the night.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
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Penne Pasta: Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties if you prefer a healthier option.
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Cream Cheese: This provides that irresistible creaminess—choose full-fat for maximum richness.
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Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness while still adding depth of flavor.
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Ranch Seasoning Mix: A crucial ingredient that brings all those delightful flavors together; homemade or store-bought works!
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Shredded Cheese: I like using cheddar for its sharpness, but feel free to mix it up with mozzarella or pepper jack.
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Green Onions: These add freshness and color; don’t skip them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your green onions and measure out chicken broth; this makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.
Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the boneless chicken breasts until they’re golden brown on each side—about 5-7 minutes per side should do it. Bacon Brown Sugar Chicken Tenders.
Add Creamy Goodness: Reduce heat to low and stir in softened cream cheese until melted and smooth—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Pasta Time: While the chicken simmers away in creamy goodness, cook your penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
Create Flavor Harmony: Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle ranch seasoning mix into the skillet with melted cream cheese. Stir until well combined—this sauce will rock your world!
Toss It All Together: Add cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with sauce; mix until everything is coated beautifully. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before serving to melt into gooey perfection.
Enjoy your Crack Chicken Penne while it’s hot! You can garnish it with chopped green onions for that extra pop of color and flavor. Chicken Linguine With Cowboy Butter
Now that you’ve conquered this incredible dish, consider adding it to your rotation—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
[info_box title=”You Must Know”] This Crack Chicken Penne recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. The creamy goodness and flavorful chicken make it irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to adjust ingredients based on your pantry. Enjoy the delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen while it cooks! [/info_box]
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then cook the penne while preparing the sauce to maximize flavor and efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out penne for your favorite pasta or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.
[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] To achieve that perfect creamy texture, use full-fat cream cheese. Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente. When reheating, add a bit of milk for creaminess and flavor enhancement. [/info_box]
Sharing this dish with friends at a potluck was memorable; everyone asked for seconds and the recipe. It felt amazing to see them enjoy something I created with love!
FAQ
Can I make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator before baking.
What can I substitute for cream cheese?
Greek yogurt or sour cream can replace cream cheese in this recipe.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to three months.
Crack Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Crack Chicken Penne is a comforting and creamy dish that transforms busy weeknights into delightful culinary experiences. Featuring tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a rich cream cheese sauce infused with ranch seasoning, this recipe is perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh green onions, and watch as everyone asks for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Gather and prep all ingredients—chop green onions and measure the chicken broth.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Reduce heat to low; stir in softened cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle ranch seasoning into the skillet; stir until combined.
- Add cooked penne to the skillet, mixing until evenly coated. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1 cup)
- Calories: 460
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
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