Are you ready for a dinner that delivers big flavor with little fuss? Crack Chicken Penne is your answer! This dish brings together creamy sauce, tender chicken, and penne pasta for a meal that’s as tasty as it is easy to make. Plus, I’ll share tips to elevate the flavor and help avoid common mistakes. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will impress your family tonight!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Creamy: This dish features a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly coats the penne pasta, making every bite a delight.
- Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal in a hurry.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that everyone will love.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the recipe to your taste by adding veggies or using different proteins, making it versatile for any dietary preference.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients for Crack Chicken Penne
To make Crack Chicken Penne, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked bacon pieces (omit for a vegetarian version)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Measurements and Substitutions
Each ingredient plays a key role in flavor and texture. Here are some tips:
- Penne pasta: You can swap penne for any pasta shape you like. Bowtie or rotini work well too.
- Chicken breast: If you prefer, use turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken. Both options save time.
- Olive oil: Can be replaced with butter for a richer taste.
- Ranch seasoning mix: If you don’t have this, make a mix of dried herbs like dill and garlic powder.
- Cream cheese: Cream cheese adds creaminess. Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Cheddar cheese: Feel free to use mozzarella or a cheese blend if you want different flavors.
- Chicken broth: Vegetable broth works if you go for a vegetarian version.
- Bacon pieces: Leave them out for a meat-free dish. You can add mushrooms for flavor.
Essential Tools and Equipment Needed
To create this dish, you will need:
- A large pot for boiling pasta
- A large skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
- A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
- A sharp knife for dicing chicken
- A measuring cup and spoons for accuracy
- A colander for draining pasta
These tools will help make the cooking process smooth and easy. Happy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Penne Pasta
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add 2 cups of penne pasta. Cook it for about 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. Make sure to stir it occasionally. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside in a bowl.
Sautéing the Chicken Breast
Next, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast to the skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and half of the ranch seasoning mix. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, stirring often, until it is browned and cooked through.
Creating the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium-low. Add 1 cup of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of chicken broth, and the remaining ranch seasoning mix into the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth. This should take around 3-5 minutes.
Combining Ingredients
Now, add the cooked penne pasta and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir everything well to coat the pasta in that creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth to adjust the texture.
Final Touches and Serving
For the final touch, stir in 1 cup of cooked bacon pieces and 2 sliced green onions. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. Plate the Crack Chicken Penne and garnish with extra green onions or cheese, if you like. Enjoy this easy, flavorful dish!
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve the Best Flavor
To get the best flavor in your Crack Chicken Penne, season your chicken well. Use salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning for a tasty kick. Sear the chicken until it is golden brown. This takes about 6-8 minutes. It adds a nice depth of flavor. When you make the creamy sauce, stir the cream cheese well. This helps it blend smoothly. Adding bacon boosts the taste, giving it a savory crunch. Don’t forget to sprinkle some green onions on top for freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the penne. Always follow the package time for al dente pasta. If you cook it too long, the pasta turns mushy. Also, be careful not to skip the ranch seasoning. It adds a unique taste that you don’t want to miss. Some cooks add too much cream cheese, making the sauce too thick. If it gets thick, just add more chicken broth until it’s right. Lastly, remember to taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper to suit your taste.
Adjusting Creaminess and Texture
To adjust the creaminess of your Crack Chicken Penne, you can add more or less cream cheese. If you want it creamier, add an extra half cup. For a lighter dish, cut back on the cream cheese. You can also swap in low-fat cream cheese. This helps keep the same flavor without too many calories. If the dish feels dry, pour in a bit more chicken broth. This adds moisture and keeps the pasta from sticking together.
Pro Tips
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: To achieve the perfect texture, cook the penne pasta just until al dente. This will prevent it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh green onions and high-quality chicken. Fresh ingredients elevate the dish and enhance the overall taste.
- Customize Your Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as pepper jack or mozzarella, for a unique flavor twist. Mixing cheeses can add depth to the dish.
- Make It Veggie-Friendly: To create a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and bacon, and consider adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
Variations
Vegetarian Option (Omitting Bacon)
You can easily make Crack Chicken Penne vegetarian. Just leave out the bacon. Instead, add more cheese for flavor. You can also use tofu for protein. Tofu takes on the taste of the sauce well. It will help keep your dish hearty and satisfying.
Adding Vegetables (e.g., spinach, bell peppers)
Adding vegetables boosts flavor and nutrition. Spinach is a great choice. It wilts nicely and adds a fresh taste. Bell peppers add crunch and color. You can sauté them with the chicken. Mix them in when you combine everything. You can also add broccoli or zucchini for extra variety.
Spicy Crack Chicken Penne
If you like heat, try making it spicy. Add red pepper flakes to the chicken. You can also mix in diced jalapeños. For a kick, use spicy ranch seasoning. This will add depth and flavor to your dish. Adjust the spice level to fit your taste. Enjoy the bold flavors!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store your Crack Chicken Penne, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. This dish tastes great even after sitting for a bit!
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to eat, put the leftovers in a pan. Heat on medium until it’s warm. You can add a splash of chicken broth to keep it creamy. Stir often to avoid sticking. If you prefer, you can use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze Crack Chicken Penne for up to three months. Use a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stove or microwave as needed. Enjoy it later!
FAQs
What is Crack Chicken Penne?
Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy pasta dish. It mixes penne pasta with chicken, ranch seasoning, and cheese. It is rich and comforting, perfect for any night. The dish also has bacon and green onions for added flavor.
Can I use different pasta?
Yes, you can use different pasta. Bowtie, fusilli, or rigatoni work well too. Choose a pasta that holds sauce nicely. Adjust cooking time based on the type of pasta you use. Always check the package for best results.
How can I lighten the recipe?
To lighten Crack Chicken Penne, use less cream cheese. You can also swap in Greek yogurt. Use whole grain pasta for more fiber. For protein, choose grilled chicken instead of bacon. These changes keep the taste while cutting calories.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can make a big batch and store it. Just keep it in airtight containers. It lasts well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave for a quick meal.
You learned how to make delicious Crack Chicken Penne. We covered the key ingredients, tools, and step-by-step cooking. Tips helped you avoid mistakes and add your own twists. Remember to store leftovers well and reheat them properly. This dish can please everyone, and it’s highly customizable. Whether you stick to the classic or try variations, you can enjoy a tasty meal. Get cooking and enjoy your delicious creatio
Crack Chicken Penne
Ingredients
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked bacon pieces
- 2 pieces green onions, sliced
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and half the ranch seasoning mix. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and add the cream cheese, chicken broth, and the remaining ranch seasoning mix to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the cooked penne pasta and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring the pasta is coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Stir in the cooked bacon pieces and sliced green onions for added flavor. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Plate the Crack Chicken Penne and garnish with extra green onions or additional cheese if desired.
