Easy Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

The smell of garlic sizzling in butter is like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Imagine a plate of creamy Crack Chicken Penne, where juicy chicken mingles with perfectly cooked pasta, rolling around in a luscious sauce that whispers comfort. This dish isn’t just food; it’s an experience—a joyous celebration of flavors that could make even the grumpiest cat purr.

I remember the first time I made this for my family—chaos reigned as kids dashed around the kitchen while I tried to keep everything under control. When they finally tasted my creation, their eyes lit up like Christmas morning! That moment sold me on this dish forever. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners or when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat.

My kids’ faces lit up with joy when they first tasted this creamy dish.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts to provide a hearty base for the dish.
• Penne Pasta: The tubular shape of penne holds sauce beautifully, making every bite a joyful explosion of flavor.
• Cream Cheese: This adds richness and creaminess, turning the sauce into a velvety dream that clings to each piece of pasta.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while infusing the dish with robust flavor.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; nothing beats the aroma of sizzling garlic.
• Dried Ranch Seasoning Mix: Adds a burst of herby goodness; it’s like magic in a packet!
• Shredded Cheese: I recommend using cheddar or mozzarella for that melty goodness that everyone loves.
• Chopped Green Onions: These add color and freshness as a fun topping right before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add salt generously because we want flavor in our pasta. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente, stirring occasionally.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some olive oil and toss in sliced boneless chicken breasts. Cook until golden brown and cooked through—about 6-7 minutes should do it.

Add Garlic and Seasoning: Toss minced garlic into the skillet along with dried ranch seasoning mix. Stir until fragrant; you’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells heavenly!

Create the Sauce: Mix in cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth and creamy. Don’t rush this part; let it bubble gently to achieve that luscious consistency.

Toss in Pasta and Cheese: Gently fold in your cooked penne along with shredded cheese. Stir well until everything is coated in cheesy goodness—oh, the joy!

Serve and Garnish!: Spoon generous portions onto plates, sprinkle with chopped green onions for crunch and freshness. Your Crack Chicken Penne is now ready to be devoured!

Enjoy every creamy bite as if you’ve just discovered gold at the end of your culinary rainbow!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor, then cook the penne while preparing the creamy sauce to maximize efficiency and flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish with veggies like spinach or bell peppers, or swap in different pasta shapes for a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to revive creaminess.

The first time I made Crack Chicken Penne, my kids devoured it so quickly I wondered if they were secretly part-time magicians!

FAQ

What can I substitute for chicken in Crack Chicken Penne?

Try using tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option that’s still hearty and satisfying.

Can I make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?

Yes, prepare it a day earlier and store in the fridge until ready to bake.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking for an extra kick!

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Crack Chicken Penne

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Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that brings tender chicken and rich sauce together for a delightful meal that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 packet dried ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• Chopped green onions for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced chicken breasts and cook until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and ranch seasoning; cook until fragrant.
4. Add cream cheese and chicken broth, stirring until smooth and creamy.
5. Fold in the cooked penne and shredded cheese until well combined.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Skillet Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 590
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 31g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 37g
• Cholesterol: 100mg