Creamy Crack Chicken Penne Pasta
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that the whole family will love, then look no further than Creamy Crack Chicken Penne Pasta. This dish is a perfect harmony of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta that will have everyone asking for seconds. With its rich flavors and comforting ingredients, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a family favorite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Creamy Crack Chicken Penne Pasta is a winner for several reasons. It combines the deliciousness of crack chicken—a dish known for its savory ranch flavors—with the comfort of creamy pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s quick to prepare, taking just about 40 minutes from prep to table. Plus, it serves up to 6 people, making it ideal for families or meal prep for the week ahead. With common ingredients and the sensational taste that will delight the taste buds, this recipe will surely find a permanent spot in your menu rotation.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe comes together with popular pantry staples and a few fresh items, making it both budget-friendly and simple.
- 300g penne pasta
- 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 225g cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 packet (30g) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Directions
Step 1: Start by cooking the penne pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne. Cook according to package instructions until it reaches al dente, usually about 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Next, prepare the chicken. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth. Stir continuously until the cream cheese has melted and created a smooth sauce. This will take about 3-4 minutes.
Step 4: Now, it’s time to add the next wave of flavors. Stir in the sour cream and ranch seasoning mix. Mix until the sauce is creamy and fully combined; it should have a luscious consistency.
Step 5: To enhance the cheesy goodness, add the shredded mozzarella and grated cheddar cheese into the skillet. Stir until the cheeses have melted and the sauce is silky smooth.
Step 6: Return the cooked chicken into the sauce, followed by the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together in the sauce until the pasta and chicken are well coated.
Step 7: Allow the entire mixture to simmer on low heat for about 10 minutes. This will help meld all the flavors together beautifully. Stir occasionally as it simmers to prevent sticking.
Step 8: For the final touch, take the pasta off the heat and garnish it with chopped green onions and parsley. This step not only adds an appealing visual element but also fresh flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Yes! While penne pasta is perfect for this recipe, you can use any pasta shape you prefer such as rotini, rigatoni, or even fettuccine.
Can I replace the chicken with a different protein?
Absolutely! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken or even turkey if you want a leaner protein option. Alternatively, plant-based proteins like chickpeas or tofu can also work well.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! This dish can be prepared in advance. Simply follow all the steps until the mixing stage. Refrigerate and then heat in a skillet to serve.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! You can freeze it too. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion
Creamy Crack Chicken Penne Pasta is a delightful dish that checks all the boxes for a cozy family meal—easy, quick, and incredibly delicious. Whether you’re serving it for a busy weeknight dinner or planning a special gathering, this pasta dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share it with your loved ones and enjoy the hearty flavors together. Happy cooking!
