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Why You’ll Absolutely Love This Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
Oh, friend, let me tell you about this Crack Chicken Penne. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. I remember the first time I made this – it was a chilly autumn evening, and the aroma wafting from my kitchen was just pure comfort. The creamy sauce, the tender chicken, the perfectly cooked penne… every bite was an absolute delight. It instantly became a family favorite, requested at every potluck and weeknight dinner.
Life gets busy, doesn’t it? That’s exactly why I adore this recipe. It’s my secret weapon for those nights when time is short, but you crave something utterly delicious and satisfying. This Crack Chicken Penne is incredibly quick to whip up, using simple ingredients you might already have in your pantry. Plus, the flavor? Oh my goodness, the combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory is simply irresistible. Ready to make some kitchen magic? Let’s dive in!
Crack Chicken Penne Recipe Ingredients
Full Ingredient List
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 (1 ounce) package ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup cooked bacon bits
- ¼ cup chopped fresh chives or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Easy Ingredient Swaps & Simple Substitutions
- Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free version, use vegan cream cheese and dairy-free cheddar cheese alternatives. You can also use nutritional yeast to add a cheesy flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Simply swap out the penne pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Brown rice pasta or quinoa pasta work wonderfully.
- Lower Sodium: Choose a low-sodium chicken broth and ranch seasoning mix to reduce the sodium content. You can also adjust the added salt to your preference.
Smart Shopping & Savvy Savings Tips
- Buy Chicken in Bulk: Purchase chicken breasts in larger packs when they are on sale and freeze any portions you won’t use immediately. This can save you money in the long run.
- Pantry Staples: Keep staples like pasta, olive oil, and chicken broth in your pantry. Ranch seasoning mix can also be made at home using dried herbs and spices you likely already have.
- Freshness Tip: Store cream cheese in its original packaging in the refrigerator. To soften it quickly, place the unopened package in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes.
The Essential Equipment for This Recipe
- Large Pot: For cooking the penne pasta. A large pot ensures the pasta has enough room to cook evenly and prevents sticking. If you don’t have a large pot, you can use a stockpot as an alternative.
- Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: To cook the chicken and create the creamy sauce. A skillet with high sides or a Dutch oven works best to contain the sauce and allow for even cooking.
- Mixing Spoons or Spatulas: For stirring ingredients and ensuring everything is well combined.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurement of ingredients, essential for recipe success!
How to Make Crack Chicken Penne: Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your own Crack Chicken Penne masterpiece!
- Cook the Penne: Bring 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 aside. Prep Time: 5 minutes. Cook Time: 10-12 minutes.
- Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Safety Tip: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet with the chicken. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Incorporate Ranch Seasoning and Cheese: Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheddar cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined and cheesy.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy chicken sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Add Bacon and Garnish: Stir in the cooked bacon bits. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions before serving.
- Serve Immediately: Serve your delicious Crack Chicken Penne hot and enjoy!
Expert Insights: Tips, Tricks, and Culinary Hacks for Success
Unlock the secrets to perfect Crack Chicken Penne with these pro tips!
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture best when combined with the creamy sauce. Overcooked pasta can become mushy.
- Soften Cream Cheese Properly: Ensure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature before adding it to the skillet. This will help it melt smoothly into the sauce without clumps. Insider Hack: If you forget to soften it, microwave it in 15-second intervals until softened, but be careful not to melt it.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust seasoning as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or ranch seasoning to your preference.
- Add a Touch of Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce or use a spicy ranch seasoning mix.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the creamy chicken sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, cook the pasta and combine it with the reheated sauce.
Recipe Swaps & Variations for Crack Chicken Penne
- Gluten-Free Crack Chicken Penne: Use gluten-free penne pasta and ensure your ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free.
- Keto-Friendly Crack Chicken: Serve the creamy chicken mixture over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of penne to reduce carbs.
- Spicy Crack Chicken Penne: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
- Cheesy Lover’s Dream: Mix in other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a richer cheese flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or spinach to the sauce for added nutrients and flavor.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with Crack Chicken Penne
Explore different ways to enjoy Crack Chicken Penne – the possibilities are endless!
- Side Salad: A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread or breadsticks are perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a healthy and flavorful side dish.
- Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a refreshing iced tea. For a family-friendly option, lemonade or sparkling water are great choices.
- Occasions: Ideal for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, potlucks, or even a comforting meal on a chilly evening.
- Presentation Tip: Garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Storing Your Crack Chicken Penne
Storing: Allow the Crack Chicken Penne to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or milk if needed to restore creaminess. Food Safety Pointer: Ensure leftovers are heated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
Freezing: While not ideal due to the cream cheese, you can freeze Crack Chicken Penne. However, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Leftover Hack: Transform leftover Crack Chicken Penne into a cheesy baked casserole! Mix it with extra cheese, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until bubbly and golden brown for a comforting second meal.
Printable Recipe Card
30-Minute Crack Chicken Penne Recipe – Creamy, Dreamy Comfort Food!
Equipment
- 1 Large Pot For cooking pasta
- 1 Large Skillet or Dutch Oven For cooking chicken and sauce
- 1 Mixing Spoons or Spatulas For stirring ingredients
- 1 Measuring Cups and Spoons For accurate measurements
Ingredients
- 1 pound Penne pasta or gluten-free alternative
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 pound Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black pepper
- 8 ounce Cream cheese softened, or vegan alternative
- 1 cup Chicken broth low-sodium optional
- 1 ounce Ranch seasoning mix package, or gluten-free, low-sodium option
- 1 cup Shredded cheddar cheese or dairy-free alternative
- 1/2 cup Cooked bacon bits
- 1/4 cup Fresh chives or green onions chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Bring 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 aside. Prep Time: 5 minutes. Cook Time: 10-12 minutes.
- While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Safety Tip: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet with the chicken. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheddar cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined and cheesy.
- Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy chicken sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
- Stir in the cooked bacon bits. If desired, garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions before serving.
- Serve your delicious Crack Chicken Penne hot and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition Breakdown: Calories, Protein, Fats & More
(Estimated per serving, assuming 6 servings)
- Calories: 650 kcal
- Protein: 45g
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Recipe FAQ
Get lost in the creamy, cheesy texture of our irresistible Crack Chicken Penne!
- Can I use rotisserie chicken? Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. Shredded rotisserie chicken can be added directly to the sauce, saving you cooking time.
- Can I make this ahead of time? The creamy chicken sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Cook the pasta fresh when you are ready to serve and combine.
- Can I freeze Crack Chicken Penne? While freezing is not ideal due to the cream cheese, it can be done. Be aware that the texture may change slightly after thawing and reheating.
- What if I don’t have ranch seasoning mix? You can make your own ranch seasoning by combining dried dill, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried buttermilk powder. Many recipes are available online!
- Can I use different types of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use other pasta shapes like rotini, ziti, or elbow macaroni. Cooking times may vary slightly.
- How can I make it spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce while it’s simmering.
Happy Cooking & Share Your Results!
Ready to dig in? Find the full Crack Chicken Penne recipe on our blog!
There you have it, friend! My treasured Crack Chicken Penne recipe, ready for you to make and enjoy. I just know you’re going to adore the creamy, cheesy, bacon-y goodness as much as my family does. It’s truly comfort food at its finest, and so incredibly easy to make. I always say, the best meals are those shared with loved ones, and this one is perfect for bringing smiles to faces around your table.
Now, it’s your turn! Go ahead and whip up a batch of this Crack Chicken Penne. I can’t wait to hear what you think! Did it become a new family favorite in your home? Did you add any fun variations? Let me know in the comments below! And be sure to share your culinary creations with me on Instagram and Pinterest – use #FingerLickingRecipes so I can see your delicious masterpieces. Happy cooking, and remember, every meal is made with love!
