Here’s a dish that’s like a warm hug on a plate—Crack Chicken Penne! Imagine tender chicken mingling with creamy goodness and perfectly cooked penne pasta. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making it impossible to resist. Whether it’s a gloomy Monday or a sunny Sunday, this dish is the ultimate comfort food that brings smiles all around.
Just picture this: you invite your friends over for a casual dinner. As they walk in, they’re greeted by the delightful scent of savory chicken simmering in a rich sauce. With every forkful, they’re transported to flavor town. This dish isn’t just about eating; it’s about creating memories and laughter over a table filled with joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
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- <p>This mouthwatering Crack Chicken Penne is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners
- Its creamy sauce combines bold flavors that will please even picky eaters
- Visually appealing with its luscious texture, this dish will steal the spotlight on any dinner table
- Plus, it’s versatile enough for busy nights or special occasions.</p>
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I once made Crack Chicken Penne for my friends’ potluck dinner, and let’s just say they devoured it faster than I could say “second helping.”
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts works well; adjust based on your crowd size.
- Penne Pasta: Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free if desired; cook until al dente for the best texture.
- Cream Cheese: Choose full-fat cream cheese for extra creaminess; it makes all the difference.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control saltiness while adding depth of flavor.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: Store-bought or homemade; this adds that signature crack flavor everyone loves.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Use sharp cheddar for maximum cheesy goodness that melts beautifully.
- Green Onions: Fresh green onions add brightness and crunch as a lovely garnish.
- Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning to enhance all the flavors in the dish.
- Paprika: Adds warmth and color; I suggest using smoked paprika for added depth.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make It Together
Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot and cooking the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté diced chicken until golden brown and cooked through—about 7-10 minutes should do it!
Add Flavorings: Stir in garlic powder and paprika to the skillet with chicken; cook until fragrant—your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Create the Sauce: Lower heat and mix in cream cheese and chicken broth until smooth. Bring everything together as you watch it transform into creamy perfection.
Toss in Pasta: Add cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with your sauce mixture. Gently fold everything together until fully coated.
Add Cheese and Serve: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top before serving! Let it melt slightly then garnish with chopped green onions for added flavor.
Now you have yourself a bowl of comfort that not only looks good but tastes even better! Enjoy every creamy bite of your Crack Chicken Penne while surrounded by loved ones—because that’s what it’s all about!
You Must Know
- Crack Chicken Penne is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a plate
- With creamy sauce and juicy chicken, it’s the ultimate comfort food that your taste buds will thank you for
- The aroma alone will have everyone flocking to the kitchen!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfect results, start by cooking the chicken until golden brown, then prepare the penne while making the creamy sauce. This method ensures everything comes together seamlessly.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition. You can also swap in different cheeses for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to revive its creamy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender chicken, don’t overcrowd the pan when searing; this allows for even cooking and browning
- Let your pasta cook al dente so it maintains a slight bite against the creamy sauce
- Always taste as you go to adjust seasoning perfectly!
Sharing Crack Chicken Penne with friends at a dinner party led to laughter and requests for seconds—nothing beats hearing “This is amazing!” from your loved ones!
FAQ
What can I substitute for cream in Crack Chicken Penne?
You can use Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a lighter alternative.
Can I make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge.
How do I make this recipe vegetarian?
Replace chicken with firm tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead.
Crack Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with penne pasta in a rich sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, it’s sure to delight everyone.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Instructions
- Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced chicken until golden brown and cooked through (about 7-10 minutes).
- Stir in garlic powder and paprika, cooking until fragrant.
- Lower heat and mix in cream cheese and chicken broth, stirring until smooth.
- Add cooked penne to the skillet, folding gently to coat with the sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and let it melt slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 41g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 90mg