Delicious Crack Chicken Penne Recipe for Comfort Food Lovers

The moment you taste Crack Chicken Penne, your taste buds will do the happy dance. Imagine a creamy, dreamy concoction of tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne bathed in a rich sauce that smells like heaven. This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly evening or the ultimate comfort food after a long day at work.

Now let me take you back to that unforgettable family gathering where this masterpiece graced the table. My cousin Jerry—who usually brings store-bought pizza—actually made an effort. He presented his version of Crack Chicken Penne with all the flair of a Michelin-star chef. The laughter and compliments filled the air as we devoured every last bite. Trust me; you’ll want to recreate this crowd-pleaser at your next family dinner or cozy night in.

I still remember my friends’ jaws dropping when I served this at our last potluck.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts; adjust based on your hungry crowd.
• Penne Pasta: This shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, making each bite satisfying.
• Cream Cheese: For that delightful creaminess that makes this dish so addictive.
• Chicken Broth: It adds depth and richness; opt for low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
• Shredded Cheese: Cheddar or mozzarella works wonders here; sprinkle generously for maximum cheesiness.
• Garlic Powder: Just a pinch enhances flavor without overpowering; choose fresh garlic if you prefer.
• Dried Ranch Seasoning Mix: The secret ingredient that elevates this dish from good to “wow!”
• Olive Oil: A drizzle is all you need to sauté your chicken to perfection.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to bring out all those wonderful flavors.

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

Let’s Make it together

Start by prepping your workspace; gather all your ingredients so everything flows smoothly.

Sauté the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and no longer pink inside—about 6-7 minutes per side.

Add Garlic & Seasonings: Once cooked through, sprinkle garlic powder and ranch seasoning over the chicken. Stir well until fragrant—your kitchen will smell divine!

Prepare the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, boil water in another pot and cook penne according to package instructions until al dente—don’t forget to salt that water!

Create the Creamy Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese with hot chicken broth until smooth. Stir in shredded cheese until melted into an irresistible creamy texture.

Combine Everything Together: Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add them back into the skillet with drained penne. Pour the creamy sauce over everything and toss gently to combine—make sure every bit gets coated!

Serve & Enjoy!: Plate up generous portions of your Crack Chicken Penne with extra cheese on top if desired. Watch as everyone digs in with delight!

And there you have it—a deliciously comforting meal that’s bound to become a staple in your home!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken for that golden-brown crust, then cook the penne while preparing your creamy sauce simultaneously. This method saves time and ensures everything is hot and fresh when serving.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ingredients like using turkey instead of chicken or adding spinach for extra nutrition. Experiment with different cheeses or herbs to make the dish uniquely yours.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream for creaminess.

The first time I made Crack Chicken Penne, my friends devoured it within minutes, asking if I’d opened a restaurant! Their laughter and compliments made my kitchen feel like home.

FAQ

What can I substitute for chicken in Crack Chicken Penne?

You can use turkey, tofu, or even shrimp as alternatives.

Can I prepare Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components separately and combine them before serving.

How do I make Crack Chicken Penne spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give it that kick!

S

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Crack Chicken Penne

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that delivers ultimate comfort in every bite. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this recipe is simple yet packed with flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 8 oz penne pasta
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp dried ranch seasoning mix
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Sauté chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook seasoned chicken breasts until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side).
2. Add seasonings: Sprinkle garlic powder and ranch seasoning over cooked chicken; stir until fragrant.
3. Prepare pasta: Boil salted water and cook penne according to package instructions until al dente.
4. Make creamy sauce: Blend cream cheese with hot chicken broth until smooth. Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
5. Combine: Slice cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces, add to skillet with drained penne, and pour creamy sauce over everything. Toss gently to coat.
6. Serve: Plate generously and enjoy!

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 115mg

Keywords: - For added nutrition, toss in spinach or swap chicken for turkey or tofu. - Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavor combinations.