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+ servings
Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne: Creamy, Quick Comfort for Your Family

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, quick weeknight meal combining tender pasta, juicy chicken, and rich cheesy sauce in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Penne Pasta opt for gluten-free if needed
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts cube for quick cooking
For the Sauce
  • 1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix homemade blends are great
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese substitute Greek yogurt for lighter option
  • 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese try pepper jack for zest
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth vegetable broth for vegetarian
  • 1/2 cup Milk plant-based milk for dairy-free
For Cooking
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil or any neutral oil
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For Garnishing
  • 1/4 cup Chopped Green Onions or Parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Cooking spoon

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crack Chicken Penne
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. In the same large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and brown for about 5-6 minutes.
  3. Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the chicken and stir well to coat. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes.
  4. Introduce the cream cheese and stir gently until melted, forming a creamy sauce.
  5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring continuously. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Carefully mix the cooked penne pasta into the creamy chicken sauce, stir gently until fully coated.
  7. Add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and rich.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  9. Garnish with chopped green onions or fresh parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 35gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 3gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.

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