Crack Chicken Penne is a dish that has taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason! This creamy, flavorful pasta dish combines tender chicken, rich cheese, and a medley of spices that create an irresistible flavor profile. Originating from the popular “Crack Chicken” phenomenon, which is known for its addictive taste, this recipe elevates the classic comfort food experience to new heights.
People love Crack Chicken Penne not just for its delightful taste but also for its creamy texture that envelops each piece of pasta, making every bite a comforting experience. The convenience of this dish is another reason it has become a household favorite; it’s quick to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings. Join me as we dive into the delicious world of Crack Chicken Penne and discover how to make this delightful dish at home!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparing the Chicken
- Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the chicken as it cooks.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken more tender.
- After resting, shred the chicken using two forks or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside for later use.
Cooking the Pasta
- While the chicken is resting, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. The salt will help flavor the pasta as it cooks.
- Add the penne pasta to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 10-12 minutes, until al dente.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Do not rinse the pasta, as you want to keep the starch that helps the sauce adhere.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet.
- Stir the mixture continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and combined with the chicken broth, creating a creamy sauce.
- Once the sauce is smooth, add the ranch seasoning mix. Stir well to incorporate the seasoning into the sauce.
- Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce. Continue stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and thick.
Combining Ingredients
- Now it’s time to combine everything! Add the shredded chicken to the creamy sauce in the skillet. Stir until the chicken is well coated with the sauce.
- Next, add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Gently toss the pasta with the chicken and sauce until everything is evenly mixed.
- If the mixture seems too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Finally, fold in the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions, reserving a small amount of each for garnish if desired.
Serving the Dish
- Once everything is combined, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the Crack Chicken Penne hot, garnished with the reserved green onions and parsley for a pop of color.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply place the desired amount in a microwave-safe dish and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
- You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened.
Tips for Success
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in ranch dressing for a few hours before cooking.
- You can substitute the chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts.
- Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before shredding or chopping into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- While the chicken rests, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions (about 10-12 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set aside without rinsing.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to low and add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth.
- Stir continuously until the cream cheese is melted and combined with the broth.
- Add the ranch seasoning mix and stir well.
- Incorporate the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir until well coated.
- Gently toss in the cooked penne pasta until evenly mixed.
- If the mixture is too thick, add more chicken broth to reach desired consistency.
- Fold in the crumbled bacon and chopped green onions, reserving some for garnish.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with reserved green onions and parsley.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a microwave-safe dish or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed.
- For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in ranch dressing before cooking.
- Substitute chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Conclusion:
If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and ease of preparation, then this Crack Chicken Penne recipe is an absolute must-try! The creamy, cheesy sauce envelops the tender penne pasta and succulent chicken, creating a delightful harmony of textures and tastes that will leave you craving more. Not only is it a crowd-pleaser, but it also makes for a fantastic weeknight dinner option that can be whipped up in no time.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a healthier twist, consider swapping out the penne for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. If you want to add some extra veggies, toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli during the cooking process. You can also experiment with different types of cheese; while cream cheese and cheddar are classic choices, feel free to try mozzarella or even a sprinkle of parmesan for a unique flavor profile.
When it comes to serving suggestions, this Crack Chicken Penne pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce. You could also serve it with a light, zesty vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors even further.
I encourage you to give this recipe a try and experience the magic of Crack Chicken Penne for yourself. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your thoughts, any variations you tried, or even a photo of your delicious creation. Your feedback not only inspires me but also helps others discover the joy of cooking this delightful dish.
So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into the world of Crack Chicken Penne. I promise you won’t regret it! Happy cooking!
Crack Chicken Penne: A Deliciously Creamy Recipe You Must Try
This creamy Crack Chicken Penne features tender chicken, rich cream cheese, and zesty ranch seasoning, all combined with penne pasta. Topped with crispy bacon and green onions, it's a comforting and delicious dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Leave a Comment