The Best Crack Chicken Penne

What is The Best Crack Chicken Penne?

So, what’s the deal with the quirky name of The Best Crack Chicken Penne? Is it because you’ll find it just as addictive as, well, crack? Not quite! The name actually stems from the dish’s deliciously creamy sauce and flavorful chicken that keeps people coming back for seconds (and thirds!). Imagine a dish so delightful that it earns a reputation for being “crack”-worthy! They say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and this pasta just might have you knocking on doors for love. Head to the kitchen and prove that pasta can truly steal the show!

Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Penne

There are three key reasons why The Best Crack Chicken Penne will steal your heart and have you dancing in the kitchen! First off, the creamy sauce is packed with flavor thanks to ingredients like ranch seasoning and cream cheese. The second reason is the cost-saving benefit—making it at home is cheaper than ordering takeout and just as satisfying! Finally, the toppings, like shredded cheese and fresh herbs, add that extra burst of flavor, taking this dish to the next level. If you’re a fan of creamy pasta dishes like our Pesto Pasta Primavera, then you’ll definitely want to add this recipe to your culinary repertoire. Ready to dive in? Let’s get cooking!

How to Make The Best Crack Chicken Penne

Quick Overview

The Best Crack Chicken Penne is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. With a rich, creamy sauce enveloping perfectly cooked penne and tender chicken, this dish will have everyone at the dinner table asking for more! The best part? You can have it on the table in under 30 minutes!

Key Ingredients for The Best Crack Chicken Penne

• 2 cups cooked penne pasta
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (plus more for topping)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pasta: Start by cooking the penne according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Mix the Sauce: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Add Chicken: Once the sauce is well-blended, add the shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it heat through for about 5 minutes.
4. Combine with Pasta: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and mix everything together, ensuring the pasta is nicely coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover the skillet, and allow it to melt for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve: Once the cheese is melted and gooey, remove the skillet from heat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.

What to Serve The Best Crack Chicken Penne With

To make your meal even more delightful, consider pairing The Best Crack Chicken Penne with a light Caesar salad for some crunch or buttery garlic bread for those extra indulgent moments. A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade can also complement the creamy richness of the dish beautifully.

Top Tips for Perfecting The Best Crack Chicken Penne

1. Chicken Options: Use rotisserie chicken to save time! It’s flavorful and perfectly cooked.
2. Cream Cheese Tip: Soften the cream cheese in the microwave for 15-20 seconds if it’s too cold.
3. Seasoning Control: If you’re watching your sodium intake, adjust the ranch seasoning to your taste.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (though they might not last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed. For long-term storage, consider freezing the dish in portions for up to three months.

With an irresistible taste and a super simple preparation, The Best Crack Chicken Penne is sure to become a favorite in your household! Be ready to enjoy creamy goodness that will have everyone asking for more! So, grab your ingredients today, and let’s make dinner an unforgettable experience!

The Best Crack Chicken Penne

A creamy, flavorful pasta dish with tender chicken that is quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 700

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked penne pasta
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened Soften in the microwave for 15-20 seconds if too cold.
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (plus more for topping)
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix Adjust to taste if monitoring sodium.
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Method

 

Preparation

1. Start by cooking the penne according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the softened cream cheese, ranch dressing, ranch seasoning, and chicken broth. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Once the sauce is well-blended, add the shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine and let it heat through for about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked penne to the skillet and mix everything together, ensuring the pasta is nicely coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover the skillet, and allow it to melt for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Once the cheese is melted and gooey, remove the skillet from heat. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or parsley if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce as needed.