Crack Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together creamy cheese, rich ranch seasoning, and tender chicken in one mouthwatering dish. The luscious sauce coats each piece of penne pasta, ensuring every bite is packed with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a weekend indulgence, this dish is guaranteed to impress.
What makes this recipe so special? It’s quick to make, irresistibly creamy, and loaded with cheesy goodness. Plus, it’s family friendly, meaning even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds! Pair it with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal, and enjoy a restaurant quality dish right at home.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (diced)
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente (about 10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- While pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, until browned and no longer pink in the center.
- Reduce heat and stir in softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring continuously until a smooth, creamy sauce forms.
- Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 480 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Crack Chicken Penne – The Ultimate Comfort Food
Crack Chicken Penne is a deliciously creamy, cheesy, and flavor packed pasta dish that has taken the internet by storm. If you’re a fan of rich, indulgent comfort food, then this recipe is for you. It combines tender chicken, a creamy ranch seasoned sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all topped with melted cheddar cheese for the ultimate bite.
This dish has earned its name because it’s so incredibly addictive once you take a bite, you won’t be able to stop! Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving it at a gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd pleaser. Plus, it’s a one pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
Why Is It Called “Crack” Chicken Penne?
The term “crack” in this recipe comes from a popular blend of flavors ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese. This combination is often referred to as “crack chicken” because of how irresistible it is. The addition of penne pasta takes it to the next level, making it a complete and filling meal.
The origins of crack chicken can be traced back to American home cooking, where ranch seasoning and cream cheese are commonly used to add depth and richness to dishes. By incorporating these ingredients into pasta, this dish takes on a creamy, comforting quality that makes it perfect for anyone who loves hearty meals.
What Makes Crack Chicken Penne Special?
One of the best things about this dish is its simplicity. It requires just a handful of ingredients and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy families and home cooks. Here are a few reasons why Crack Chicken Penne is a must try recipe:
- Quick and Easy: You don’t need to be a professional chef to make this dish. With minimal prep and a few simple steps, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meal on the table in no time.
- Incredibly Flavorful: The combination of ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese creates an explosion of flavors that complement the tender chicken and al dente pasta perfectly.
- Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this creamy, cheesy pasta. It’s a great way to get kids excited about dinner.
- One-Pot Convenience: Since everything is cooked in one skillet, cleanup is super easy. This means less time spent washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can tweak the recipe to suit your dietary preferences. Add vegetables, swap out the protein, or use different types of pasta to make it your own.
Customization Ideas
One of the best things about Crack Chicken Penne is how easy it is to customize. Here are some variations you can try:
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- Add Veggies: Sneak in extra nutrients by adding spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli. These will add color and texture to the dish.
- Swap the Protein: While chicken is the traditional protein for this dish, you can also use turkey, shrimp, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Use Different Pasta: While penne works great because it holds onto the sauce well, you can also use rigatoni, fusilli, or bowtie pasta.
- Make It Healthier: If you want a lighter version, you can use reduced fat cream cheese, whole wheat pasta, and Greek yogurt instead of full fat cream cheese.
Best Sides to Serve with Crack Chicken Penne
While this dish is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side dishes can elevate the meal even more. Here are some great options:
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of garlic bread pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta sauce.
- Side Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish. A simple Caesar salad or mixed greens with balsamic dressing works well.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a fresh contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The slightly crispy texture of roasted Brussels sprouts brings a nice crunch to the meal.
- Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: If you want to add more protein, grilled chicken or shrimp can be a great addition.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Crack Chicken Penne makes excellent leftovers, and it’s easy to store and reheat. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: If you want to make a big batch, you can freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let the dish cool completely before freezing.
- Reheating: To reheat, warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen it up. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30 second intervals, stirring in between.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make Crack Chicken Penne in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make this dish in a slow cooker, cook the chicken with the ranch seasoning, chicken broth, and cream cheese on low for 4-6 hours. Shred the chicken, then stir in the cooked pasta and cheddar cheese before serving.
2. What kind of cheese works best for this recipe?
Sharp cheddar cheese is the best choice because it adds a bold, tangy flavor that complements the creamy sauce. However, you can experiment with mozzarella, Colby Jack, or even Parmesan for a different taste.
3. Is Crack Chicken Penne keto-friendly?
Not in its traditional form because of the pasta, but you can make a keto version by swapping the penne for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
4. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time and store them separately. When you’re ready to eat, simply cook the pasta and combine everything in a skillet to heat through.
5. What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can make your own by mixing dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, and a little salt and pepper.
Conclusion:
Crack Chicken Penne is a meal that delivers big on flavor, comfort, and convenience. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish will satisfy your cravings for something creamy, cheesy, and delicious.
The best part is how easy it is to customize whether you add veggies, swap proteins, or spice things up, there’s no wrong way to enjoy this recipe. Plus, with its quick cooking time and one pot convenience, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a filling meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
So, the next time you’re craving a comforting, homemade dish, give Crack Chicken Penne a try. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!