Easy and Delicious Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

Crack Chicken Penne has a way of making even the toughest day melt away. Imagine a creamy, dreamy dish packed with tender chicken, all wrapped in luscious penne pasta. The aroma wafting from your kitchen will have everyone asking if dinner is ready five minutes after you start cooking!

This dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families together around the table. Picture this—a cozy evening with loved ones, laughter filling the air as you dig into a bowl of pure comfort. With every bite of this delightful Crack Chicken Penne, you’ll feel the warmth and joy it brings to any occasion!

A small paragraph of a Personal anecdote of 15 to 20 words sharing a specific experience with the recipe.

I remember my family’s delighted reactions when I first served them this dish; they devoured it in minutes!

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts for a hearty meal; adjust based on your appetite.
• Penne Pasta: Cooked al dente for the best texture; it holds onto sauce beautifully.
• Cream Cheese: Provides creaminess; opt for full-fat for richer flavor.
• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium broth to keep control over saltiness while enhancing flavors.
• Ranch Dressing Mix: Adds zesty flavor; homemade or store-bought works wonders in this dish.
• Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar melts perfectly into the pasta for an irresistible finish.
• Green Onions: Chopped for garnish; they add freshness and crunch to each bite.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing chicken until golden brown and flavorful.
• Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning that enhances overall taste without overpowering other ingredients.

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

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a large pot and fill it with salted water; bring it to a rolling boil before adding your penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente then drain and set aside while you work on your sauce.

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and toss in your diced chicken breasts. Season them generously with garlic powder and let them cook until golden brown on all sides—about 5-7 minutes should do the trick! Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!

Once cooked through, pour in the chicken broth and add cream cheese along with ranch dressing mix. Stir continuously until everything melts together into a creamy mixture that will have you drooling.

Now fold in your cooked penne pasta into this delicious sauce until every piece is coated evenly—make sure there are no dry noodles left behind! Transfer everything into a greased baking dish and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top.

Bake uncovered for about 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top; trust me when I say patience is key here! When you finally pull it out of the oven, garnish with chopped green onions for that extra touch of flair!

Let it cool slightly before serving—if you can resist diving right in! Enjoy each mouthful of creamy Crack Chicken Penne alongside some crusty bread or fresh salad for an unforgettable meal experience!

And there you have it—the ultimate comfort food that brings joy not just through flavors but also memorable moments shared around dining tables everywhere!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken for golden-brown perfection, then cook the penne while you prepare the creamy sauce. This sequence ensures everything melds beautifully without overcooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or add spinach for extra nutrients. Experiment with different cheeses or spices to make this dish uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave until hot or warm gently on the stove with a splash of milk.

Sometimes, I whip up Crack Chicken Penne when friends drop by unexpectedly, and their smiles say it all!

FAQ

What can I substitute for cream in Crack Chicken Penne?

Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream can work well as substitutes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it later.

How do I make Crack Chicken Penne spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or use spicy cheese to kick up the heat!

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Crack Chicken Penne

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Indulge in this easy-to-make Crack Chicken Penne, featuring tender chicken and penne pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings.

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Penne pasta
• Cream cheese
• Chicken broth
• Ranch dressing mix
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Green onions
• Olive oil
• Garlic powder

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté diced chicken breasts seasoned with garlic powder until golden brown (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add chicken broth, cream cheese, and ranch dressing mix to the skillet. Stir until combined and creamy.
4. Fold in the cooked penne pasta until evenly coated. Transfer to a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
5. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 105mg