Why Make This Recipe

Crack Chicken Penne is not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate that combines comforting flavors and satisfying textures. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together in under 30 minutes. With its creamy texture and zesty ranch flavor, this recipe transforms basic pasta and chicken into a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to prepare. It’s also an excellent way to use up leftover chicken or pasta!

How to Make Crack Chicken Penne

Creating this delicious dish is easy and can be done in just a few simple steps. With the right ingredients and a little bit of time, you can whip up a comforting meal that your entire family will love.

Ingredients:

2 cups cooked penne pasta
2 cups shredded cooked chicken
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

In a large pot, combine cooked penne pasta and shredded chicken.
In a separate bowl, mix ranch seasoning, cream cheese, chicken broth, and milk until smooth.
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and pasta, stirring until well combined.
Cook over medium heat until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne is best enjoyed immediately while it’s still warm. You can serve it in generous bowls, garnished with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a touch of color. Consider pairing it with a fresh garden salad on the side or some garlic bread to soak up that creamy goodness. This dish also makes for excellent leftovers, perfect for a hearty lunch the next day!

How to Store Crack Chicken Penne

If you have leftovers (which is always a good sign!), you can store Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore some of the creaminess. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months, but note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating.

Tips to Make Crack Chicken Penne

Leftover Chicken: This recipe is perfect for utilizing leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken, saving you both time and effort.
Cream Cheese: Ensure your cream cheese is fully softened for easier mixing. You can microwave it for a few seconds if you’re short on time.
Cheese Lovers: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese! Adding mozzarella or pepper jack can give your dish a unique twist.
Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of chicken broth or let the mixture simmer a bit longer before serving.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe to suit your tastes. Swap out the penne pasta for another shape like fusilli or rigatoni. If you want a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or some hot sauce to the creamy mixture. For a veggie boost, you can stir in some cooked broccoli or spinach just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken in this recipe?
Yes, but you will need to cook the chicken separately first and then shred it before adding it to the pasta.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Crack Chicken Penne holds up well in the fridge and makes for great meal prep portions! Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.

Crack Chicken Penne

A comforting pasta dish made with shredded chicken, creamy ranch sauce, and cheese that's perfect for busy weeknights.

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 5

Total Time 15

Serving Size servings

Ingredients

Main ingredients

2 cups cooked penne pasta Use leftover pasta or cook fresh.
2 cups shredded cooked chicken Ideal for leftover chicken.
1 packet ranch seasoning mix Use your favorite brand.
1 cup cream cheese, softened Microwave for a few seconds to soften if needed.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to experiment with different cheeses.
1/2 cup chicken broth Can be replaced with vegetable broth for vegetarian option.
1/2 cup milk Add more for a creamier sauce.
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preparation

In a large pot, combine cooked penne pasta and shredded chicken.
In a separate bowl, mix ranch seasoning, cream cheese, chicken broth, and milk until smooth.
Pour the creamy mixture over the chicken and pasta, stirring until well combined.
Cook over medium heat until heated through, about 5 minutes.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serving

Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Best enjoyed immediately while warm. Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat on stovetop over medium heat.