Name: Crack Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta (Cook according to package directions.); 1 lb chicken breast, diced (Sauté until golden brown.); 8 oz cream cheese (Can substitute with Greek yogurt.); 1 packet ranch dressing mix (Key to the dish's flavor.); 1 cup chicken broth (Gradually added for creaminess.); 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (Stir in for a cheesy flavor.); 1/2 cup green onions, chopped (Use half for cooking and half for garnishing.); to taste Salt and pepper (Important for seasoning.); Olive oil as needed (For sautéing chicken.)

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only creamy and savory but also quick to prepare and family-friendly, then you must try Crack Chicken Penne! This dish bursts with flavor and is a delightful mix of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Did you know that this dish has gained quite a reputation for being incredibly addictive? That’s how it got its name! It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. Just think of it as the heartwarming hug your taste buds have been waiting for! If you love comforting pasta dishes as much as I do, you might want to explore my Chicken Alfredo recipe too. So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making this creamy, delectable meal that you’ll want to prepare again and again!

What is Crack Chicken Penne?

Now, let’s talk about the name Crack Chicken Penne. I mean, doesn’t it just sound intriguing? One might wonder if there’s some secret ingredient that hooks you, right? Imagine a dish so good that people are left craving more after every bite. Legend has it that once you taste it, you can’t stop at just one serving – hence the name “Crack!” It’s almost like how they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but trust me, this dish will also capture hearts of all ages! So, are you ready to experience the deliciousness?

Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne is a fantastic dish that packs a punch of flavors and appeals to a wide audience. First and foremost, the creamy sauce is the star of the show! The combination of cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and tender chicken creates a delightful harmony that dances on your taste buds. Additionally, cooking at home means you can enjoy these mouth-watering flavors while saving a few bucks compared to dining out. And let’s not forget the irresistible toppings! A sprinkle of green onions, a dash of cheese, and perhaps a touch of crispy breadcrumbs bring out the scrumptious nature of this dish. If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes, you might also enjoy my Easy Chicken Carbonara. So don’t hesitate—give Crack Chicken Penne a try at home!

How to Make Crack Chicken Penne

Quick Overview

Crack Chicken Penne is incredibly easy to whip up in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights! The rich, creamy sauce comes together effortlessly, ensuring you won’t even break a sweat. With the right ingredients and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Key Ingredients for Crack Chicken Penne

To create this delightful dish, you will need the following ingredients:

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb chicken breast, diced
8 oz cream cheese
1 packet ranch dressing mix
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the diced chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Make the Sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Add the cream cheese and ranch dressing mix, stirring until the cream cheese has melted. Gradually pour in the chicken broth until the sauce is well blended and creamy.
Combine and Cook: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it to coat with the sauce. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and half of the green onions, mixing well until everything is heated through.
Serve: Serve hot, garnished with the remaining green onions and, if desired, additional cheese.

What to Serve Crack Chicken Penne With

To enhance your meal, consider pairing Crack Chicken Penne with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. A simple garlic bread or buttery rolls would complement the creamy sauce beautifully while offering a delightful crunch. For a refreshing drink, a chilled lemonade or iced tea would be perfect!

Top Tips for Perfecting Crack Chicken Penne

Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re out of cream cheese, Greek yogurt can be a great alternative for that creamy texture! You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save even more time.
Cooking Time: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as this may lead to a dry texture. Letting it cook just until golden and no longer pink is ideal.
Common Mistakes: Make sure to season your chicken well to build a robust flavor base for your sauce. Don’t skip the ranch seasoning—it’s the secret to that “crack” quality you’re looking for!

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you’d like to freeze it, just remember to omit the cheese, as it doesn’t freeze well once melted. Once it cools, place it in a freezer-safe container; it’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it in a pan on low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

Now that you have all the essential details, why not give Crack Chicken Penne a try tonight? This dish is sure to become a family favorite that you’ll want to make time and time again! Happy cooking!