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Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
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★★★★★

5.2 from 28 reviews

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender diced chicken breasts cooked in a rich cream cheese and ranch seasoning sauce, combined with penne pasta and topped with melted sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a comforting and easy-to-make recipe perfect for family dinners or busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Pasta

  • 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 8 ounces penne pasta (whole wheat or regular)

Sauce

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Topping

  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • Optional garnish: fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until browned on all sides and fully cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes.
  3. Create the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix into the cooked chicken. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy ranch sauce.
  5. Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta. Cover the skillet and let the cheese melt into the sauce for about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the Crack Chicken Penne to plates or bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired for added color and flavor. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • If you prefer a lighter version, use low-fat cream cheese or reduce the amount.
  • Fresh herbs such as thyme or chives can be added to enhance the flavor.
  • Incorporate vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrition.
  • For extra flavor, top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
  • 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.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crack Chicken Penne, creamy chicken pasta, ranch chicken pasta, easy chicken dinner, comfort food pasta

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