Dinner

Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

ByMarina Montclair October 13, 2025October 13, 2025

Introduction

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, comforting pasta dish packed with tender chicken and rich cheddar cheese. With a flavorful ranch seasoning twist, it’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

A black pan filled with creamy cooked penne pasta mixed with chunks of white chicken, covered generously with melted bright yellow cheddar cheese that stretches slightly as a wooden spoon lifts some of the pasta. The dish is sprinkled with chopped green herbs and cracked black pepper. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with fresh green parsley leaves in the background, and a woman's hand holding the wooden spoon pulling some pasta from the pan. The colors are warm with the creamy sauce blending with the golden cheese and hints of green herbs adding contrast. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
12 ounces penne pasta (whole wheat or regular)
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes.
Step 3: Lower the heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning until well combined. Gradually add the chicken broth, stirring continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 4: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta, cover the skillet, and let it sit for 2–3 minutes until the cheese melts into the sauce.
Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use low-fat cream cheese or reduce the amount for a lighter sauce.
Add fresh herbs like thyme or chives for extra flavor.
Incorporate vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added nutrients.
Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving for a savory boost.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

The image shows a black skillet filled with creamy baked penne pasta mixed with pieces of chicken and melted orange-yellow cheddar cheese layered evenly throughout. The penne is coated in a smooth, light yellow sauce, and topped with specks of fresh green parsley and black pepper, adding a fresh and slightly textured look. A wooden spoon is lifting a portion of the cheesy pasta, revealing layers of tender pasta tubes, chicken chunks, and gooey melted cheese inside the skillet, which rests on a white marbled surface with a white and light brown striped cloth nearby, and some green leaves in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or rigatoni. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute cream cheese and cheddar cheese with dairy-free alternatives. Also, check that your ranch seasoning mix is dairy-free or make a homemade version.