There’s something about the aroma of simmering chicken and cheese that makes you feel like you’ve just walked into a cozy kitchen filled with love. Imagine thick, creamy sauce clinging to tender penne pasta while bits of savory chicken dance around like they’re at a party. That’s the magic of Crack Chicken Penne: a dish that not only fills your belly but also warms your soul.

I remember the first time I served this dish to my family. My husband took one bite and did an exaggerated swoon, declaring it “the best thing since sliced bread!” Since then, this has been our go-to meal for all sorts of occasions—lazy Sundays, surprise guests, or simply when we want to impress ourselves with our culinary prowess.

A few years back during a family gathering, I served this dish, and the plate emptied faster than I could say “seconds!” Everyone couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal; adjust based on how many hungry mouths you’re feeding!
• Penne Pasta: The perfect shape to hold onto all that creamy goodness; choose whole grain if you’re feeling healthy.
• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for rich creaminess; low-fat works too if you’re counting calories.
• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness while ensuring full flavor.
• Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is the secret weapon here—adds tons of flavor without extra effort; use homemade if you’re fancy.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar brings a delightful tang; sprinkle generously because you can never have too much cheese!
• Green Onions: These add a pop of color and freshness; chop them finely for even distribution.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter—this makes everything easier! Chop those green onions and shred your cheddar cheese before diving in.

Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced boneless chicken breasts until golden brown and cooked through—about 6-8 minutes should do the trick.

Add the Creamy Goodness: Lower the heat and mix in cream cheese until melted and smooth—trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!

Pasta Time: Stir in cooked penne pasta along with chicken broth and ranch seasoning mix; let everything simmer together so flavors can marry beautifully—around 5 minutes is perfect.

Toss in Cheddar: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and stir until melted through; this creates that ooey-gooey texture everyone loves.

Garnish & Serve: Serve hot with chopped green onions sprinkled on top—it not only looks fabulous but adds that fresh crunch we all crave!

Now your kitchen probably smells amazing enough to attract any wandering neighbors who might just pop in for a visit!

This creamy Crack Chicken Penne recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. Enjoy every single bite while basking in compliments from family and friends!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in those juicy flavors, then cook the penne while preparing a luscious sauce for a seamless experience.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the chicken for turkey or go vegetarian with mushrooms; add some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flair!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream if it looks dry.

The first time I made Crack Chicken Penne, my kids devoured it so fast that I barely got a taste! Their smiles were priceless.

FAQ

What can I substitute for chicken in Crack Chicken Penne?

You can use turkey, tofu, or even mushrooms for a delicious vegetarian option.

How long does it take to prepare Crack Chicken Penne?

Preparation plus cooking time usually takes about 30-40 minutes total.

Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne leftovers?

Yes, store them in freezer-safe containers for up to three months without losing flavor.

Print

Crack Chicken Penne

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• Author: Mery Mack
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4

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Description

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, savory pasta dish that combines tender chicken and rich flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 green onions, chopped

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Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients by chopping green onions and shredding cheddar cheese.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté diced chicken breasts until golden brown (6-8 minutes).
3. Lower the heat and add cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
4. Add cooked penne pasta, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix; simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in shredded cheddar until melted; garnish with green onions before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 530
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 29g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 34g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: Substitute chicken with turkey or use mushrooms for a vegetarian version. Enhance flavor by adding spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.