Description

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, comforting pasta dish featuring tender, seasoned chicken breasts, al dente penne pasta, and a rich creamy sauce made with cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth. Finished with sharp cheddar cheese melting into the sauce, this recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying meal perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 packet (about 1 oz) ranch seasoning mix

Pasta

12 oz penne pasta (whole wheat or regular)
Water and salt for boiling pasta

Sauce

4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup chicken broth, low sodium preferred
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Optional Garnishes

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Fresh herbs such as thyme or chives (optional)
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is browned on all sides and fully cooked through.
Create the Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to low. Stir in the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix until well combined. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring continuously to form a smooth, creamy sauce.
Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss gently to coat all the pasta evenly with the sauce.
Finish with Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the pasta. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt fully into the sauce.
Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the creamy crack chicken penne to plates, garnish with fresh parsley or optional herbs and Parmesan if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Use low-fat cream cheese for a lighter sauce if preferred.
Fresh herbs like thyme or chives add extra flavor and freshness.
Add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to increase nutrition.
Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a more intense cheese flavor.
Make sure not to overcook the pasta; al dente texture provides the best mouthfeel for this dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Keywords: Crack Chicken Penne, Creamy Chicken Pasta, Ranch Chicken Pasta, Easy Dinner, One-skillet Chicken Pasta