Crack Chicken Penne 2025 - Tasto recipes [Recipe PDF Free]

Name: Crack Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces); 8 oz penne pasta (cooked al dente); salt & pepper (to taste); 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 1 packet ranch seasoning mix; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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If you’re looking for a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed pasta dish, this Crack Chicken Penne is about to become your new favorite meal! With tender chicken, rich cream cheese, savory ranch seasoning, and melty cheddar, every bite is pure comfort food bliss.

Best of all? It’s a one-pan wonder that comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. One taste, and you’ll understand why it’s called “crack” chicken—it’s that addictive!

So, grab your ingredients, and let’s make this irresistible, creamy pasta dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ One-Pan Simplicity – Everything comes together in a single skillet for easy cleanup.
✔️ Packed with Flavor – Ranch seasoning, creamy cheese, and juicy chicken make every bite unforgettable.
✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
✔️ Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters love this dish!
✔️ Meal Prep Approved – Reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

“Good food is all the sweeter when shared with family.”

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this rich, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish:

For the Pasta & Chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The protein star of the dish, adding heartiness.
Penne pasta – Holds the creamy sauce perfectly for each bite.
Salt & pepper – Enhances the chicken’s flavor.

For the Creamy Ranch Sauce:

Cream cheese – Creates a rich, velvety sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
Ranch seasoning mix – The secret to that bold, zesty flavor.
Chicken broth – Helps create a smooth, silky sauce while adding depth.

The Cheesy Finishing Touch:

Shredded cheddar cheese – Melts into gooey, cheesy perfection for the ultimate comfort food experience.

👉 Note: Exact ingredient measurements are listed in the recipe card at the bottom!

Pro Tip: Want to add some extra veggies? Stir in some spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for added nutrition!

How to Make Crack Chicken Penne

This recipe is quick, easy, and comes together in just a few simple steps. Follow these instructions for a creamy, cheesy pasta dish that’s packed with flavor.

Step 1: 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 and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.

Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned on the outside and fully cooked inside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix. Mix until the cream cheese starts to melt and blend with the chicken.

Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy ranch mixture.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the pasta. Cover the skillet and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.

Once the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy, give everything a final stir and serve hot.

Pro Tip: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of warm milk or extra chicken broth to loosen it up.

Pro Tips for the Best Crack Chicken Penne

✔ Use freshly shredded cheese – Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
✔ Don’t overcook the pasta – It should be al dente so it holds up well in the creamy sauce.
✔ Let the sauce thicken naturally – Simmer it gently instead of turning up the heat too high.
✔ Season to taste – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, garlic powder, or smoked paprika for extra depth of flavor.

Pro Tip: Want to lighten up this dish? Use Greek yogurt or reduced-fat cream cheese instead of full-fat cream cheese.

How to Serve Crack Chicken Penne

This dish is rich, creamy, and satisfying on its own, but here are a few ways to round out the meal:

✔ With a Side Salad – A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
✔ With Garlic Bread – Serve with warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
✔ With Roasted Vegetables – Pair with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrients.

Pro Tip: If serving this for a crowd, keep it warm in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting and stir occasionally.

Make Ahead and Storage

This dish is great for meal prep because it stores and reheats well. Follow these tips to keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but it will loosen up when reheated.
Best way to store: Let the pasta cool before sealing it in a container to prevent condensation, which can make it soggy.

Freezing

Freezing the Pasta: Let the cooked pasta cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Freezing the Sauce Separately: If you plan to freeze, consider storing the sauce separately from the pasta. This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much liquid.

Reheating

Stovetop: Add a splash of chicken broth or milk to the pan and reheat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until evenly heated. Add a bit of liquid if needed to keep the sauce creamy.

Pro Tip: If reheating from frozen, let the pasta thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results.

FAQs

Here are answers to some common questions about this recipe.

1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne with rotini, rigatoni, fusilli, or elbow macaroni. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.

2. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes. To make slow cooker Crack Chicken Penne, place the chicken, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and broth in the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours. Shred the chicken, add cooked pasta, stir in cheese, and serve.

3. What can I add for extra flavor?

You can enhance the dish by adding garlic, red pepper flakes, green onions, or crispy bacon for extra depth and texture.

4. Can I make this dish lighter?

Yes. Use light cream cheese, whole wheat pasta, or reduce the cheese for a lighter version. You can also substitute Greek yogurt for part of the cream cheese to cut down on fat while keeping it creamy.

Conclusion

This Crack Chicken Penne is the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and cheesy flavors with just the right amount of seasoning. It’s a quick and easy meal that works well for weeknights, meal prepping, or even special occasions.

With minimal prep and just one pan, this recipe is both delicious and convenient. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting, hearty pasta dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Let me know how it turns out for you. Happy cooking!