Crack Chicken Penne is a dish that perfectly blends creamy, savory, and hearty ingredients into a delicious meal that will please any palate. Imagine a rich, velvety sauce cradling perfectly cooked penne pasta, all brought to life with tender chicken and a medley of flavorful spices. It’s often lovingly dubbed “Crack Chicken” for its addictive flavor that keeps you coming back for more! This dish is not only special for its taste but also for its simplicity and quick preparation time. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this recipe is a breeze to whip up and is guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. Plus, it’s a great way to impress your guests without spending hours in the kitchen; it takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish! If you enjoy hearty pasta dishes, be sure to check out our One-Pot Pasta Primavera for another easy and flavorful option. Now, let’s dive into this wonderful Crack Chicken Penne recipe that is sure to become a favorite in your home!
What is Crack Chicken Penne?
So, what’s in a name? Crack Chicken Penne sounds intriguing, doesn’t it? I like to think of it as the culinary equivalent of a modern-day fairy tale where the main character—a creamy chicken sauce—sweeps the humble penne pasta off its feet! But in reality, it’s called crack chicken because once you take that first bite, you might find yourself hooked! It’s almost like that classic saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but in this case, it’s through a bowl of delightful penne pasta. Don’t just take my word for it; experience the magic for yourself! Grab your apron and let’s make this delectable dish!
Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Penne
What’s not to love about Crack Chicken Penne? First and foremost, the creamy sauce is the star of the dish, offering a rich and satisfying texture that melds beautifully with the pasta. You can savor every bite, with the flavors dancing on your tongue, making it a truly delightful experience. Secondly, cooking this dish at home is a great way to save money while enjoying a restaurant-quality meal. It’s easy on your wallet and your time! Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies or protein options. Compared to our other pasta recipes, like the comforting Classic Alfredo, Crack Chicken Penne stands out for its unique blend of flavors and textures. Don’t wait—try this recipe at home today and see why it’s a must-try!
How to Make Crack Chicken Penne
Quick Overview
Making Crack Chicken Penne is unbelievably easy and quick, and that’s what makes it a favorite for busy weeknights. With a creamy sauce that is rich in flavors and perfectly cooked penne pasta, you can have a satisfying meal in about 30 minutes! The creamy texture paired with the tender chicken and spices creates a comforting dish that is sure to become a staple in your home.
Key Ingredients for Crack Chicken Penne
To whip up this lovely dish, here’s what you’ll need:
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced chicken. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth gradually while stirring until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Combine: Add the ranch seasoning mix and stir until fully incorporated. Gradually add the shredded cheese, mixing until melted and well combined.
- Mix it All Together: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Serve: Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot!
Top Tips for Perfecting Crack Chicken Penne
- Ingredient Substitutions: You can use Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream cheese for a lighter version of the sauce. If you want to add some veggies, consider tossing in spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Avoiding Overcooking: Be sure to watch the chicken closely as it cooks to avoid drying it out. Aim for juicy, tender pieces rather than overcooked chicken.
- Mix and Match: Feel free to experiment by swapping out the cheese or adding a dash of your favorite hot sauce to spice things up!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers (which is quite rare!), you can store Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best enjoyed fresh but reheating is simple! Just place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to bring back the creaminess, and stir until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but be sure to cover them to avoid drying out.
Now that you’ve discovered the creamy goodness of Crack Chicken Penne, why not gather your ingredients and get cooking? Your taste buds will thank you! Enjoy your culinary adventure!
Crack Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Method
- Start by boiling a pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced chicken. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
- Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Pour in the chicken broth gradually while stirring until the mixture is creamy and smooth.
- Add the ranch seasoning mix and stir until fully incorporated. Gradually add the shredded cheese, mixing until melted and well combined.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot!
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