Crack Chicken Penne combines the rich flavors of creamy chicken, savory spices, and perfectly cooked pasta in one delightful dish. This recipe embodies comfort food at its finest, offering ease of preparation without compromising on taste. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply looking for a satisfying meal any day of the week, Crack Chicken Penne delivers delectable satisfaction with every bite.
Why We Love This Crack Chicken Penne
Crack Chicken Penne stands out for several reasons. First, it delivers a delightful balance of flavors that satisfy your cravings. The creamy sauce and tender chicken meld beautifully, creating a comforting dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing. The penne pasta acts as the perfect vessel, soaking up all the delicious sauce.
Additionally, this recipe is quick and simple, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you need a meal on the table without a lot of fuss. You can prepare it in under 30 minutes, which means you spend less time cooking and more time enjoying dinner with your loved ones. The ingredients are common pantry staples, meaning you likely have everything you need at home. With its simple preparation and mouthwatering taste, it’s easy to see why Crack Chicken Penne becomes a go-to in your recipe collection.
Ingredients for Crack Chicken Penne
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
In a large skillet, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir over medium heat until the cream cheese melts and everything mixes smoothly.
Add the garlic powder and onion powder to the skillet. Mix well and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the sauce is well combined and creamy, gently fold in the cooked penne pasta. Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy mixture.
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. The heat from the pasta and the sauce will melt the cheese, creating a rich and creamy texture.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve Crack Chicken Penne
When serving Crack Chicken Penne, consider pairings that enhance its creamy goodness and make for a delightful meal experience. You can serve the dish hot, straight from the skillet, allowing the cheese to slightly string as you plate it.
For a balanced meal, think about refreshing sides. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can add a crisp contrast to the richness of the penne. Simple garlic bread or crusty rolls are fantastic options, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
For a bit of added flavor, consider topping each serving with a sprinkle of freshly crushed black pepper or extra cheese. You could also offer a side of steamed vegetables, such as green beans or broccoli, to round out your plate with color and nutrition. This way, you create not only a visually appealing meal but also one that satisfies a range of palates.
Expert Tips for Crack Chicken Penne
To ensure your Crack Chicken Penne turns out perfectly every time, keep these expert tips in mind. First, use freshly cooked chicken for the best flavor. You can quickly poach chicken breasts or use rotisserie chicken for convenience, as it saves time and effort.
Next, don’t skimp on the seasoning. The ranch packet provides a delicious flavor base, but feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. If you prefer herbs, try adding dried thyme or Italian seasoning for an extra layer of flavor.
Another tip is to keep an eye on the cream sauce as it simmers. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of extra chicken broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.
When mixing in the cheddar cheese, consider using a blend of different cheeses for variety. Cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add unique flavors and textures.
Lastly, always taste before serving. Adjust salt and pepper to your preference. Remember that the overall flavor should be cohesive and satisfying to your own taste buds.
How to Store Crack Chicken Penne
Storing Crack Chicken Penne is simple and allows you to enjoy leftovers later. After your meal, let any remaining pasta cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’s best to store leftovers in the refrigerator, where they can last for up to three days.
To reheat, place the desired amount of Crack Chicken Penne in a microwave-safe dish, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to counter the chance of drying out. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap and reheat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
If you want to store Crack Chicken Penne for a longer period, consider freezing it. Place the cooled pasta in freezer-safe bags or containers, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen meal in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
Variations of Crack Chicken Penne
Creating variations of Crack Chicken Penne is an enjoyable way to mix things up while keeping the essence of the dish. For a lighter option, consider swapping regular pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free penne. This change makes the meal healthier while maintaining that signature comfort feel.
Another delicious twist is to add vegetables directly into the dish. Chopped spinach, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can incorporate added nutrition and flavor. Sauté vegetables in the skillet before adding the chicken mixture for a beautiful, colorful presentation.
If you like spice, you may want to introduce a kick by adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the chicken mixture. This spicy blend can invigorate the dish and increase its appeal for those who enjoy bolder flavors.
Switching the protein is also an easy and tasty variation. Substitute the shredded chicken with shredded turkey or even cooked shrimp. Each protein brings a different flavor and texture that can create a new favorite twist on an already beloved dish.
FAQ about Crack Chicken Penne
Crack Chicken Penne is a favorite among many, and you might have some questions about this irresistible dish. One common inquiry is whether you can make it ahead of time. Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce earlier in the day and store them separately from the pasta. Combine them when you’re ready to eat, heating them together for a fresh serving.
Another frequently asked question involves the possibility of making it vegetarian. While traditional Crack Chicken Penne uses chicken, you can easily substitute it with chickpeas or your choice of plant-based protein. Keep the chicken broth or substitute it with vegetable broth to maintain the dish’s essence.
People often want to know if they can make it dairy-free. You can replace the cream cheese with a vegan cream cheese or cashew-based alternative. Use dairy-free cheese and adjust the butter in the original recipe to a non-dairy version for a delicious dairy-free option.
Lastly, regarding storage, many wonder if it’s safe to freeze Crack Chicken Penne. The answer is yes; it freezes well. Just ensure it’s sealed in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When defrosting, always thaw in the fridge and consume within a few days for the best flavor and safety.
With these tips and adaptations, Crack Chicken Penne can easily fit into various dietary preferences and needs while remaining a family favorite. Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!
Crack Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 ounces penne pasta Common pantry staple
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Use freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken for best flavor
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth Add extra if the sauce is too thick
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix Provides a flavorful base
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Consider using a cheese blend for variety
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder Adjust to taste
- 1 tablespoon onion powder Adjust to taste
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley Optional, for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Start by boiling a large pot of salted water over medium-high heat.
- Once the water reaches a rolling boil, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Cooking the Sauce
- In a large skillet, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix.
- Stir over medium heat until the cream cheese melts and everything mixes smoothly.
- Add the garlic powder and onion powder to the skillet, mix well, and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combining
- Once the sauce is well combined and creamy, gently fold in the cooked penne pasta.
- Stir until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy mixture.
- Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
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