Crack Chicken Penne Families Love
Highlighted under: Comfort Dinner Recipes
This delicious Crack Chicken Penne dish is sure to become a family favorite, combining creamy flavors with tender chicken and pasta.
This Crack Chicken Penne recipe was inspired by the need for a quick yet satisfying meal that brings the family together. The combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta creates a comforting dish that everyone will love.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy goodness that coats every bite
- Easy to prepare with minimal cleanup
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
A Comforting Family Meal
Crack Chicken Penne is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for those busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, this dish appeals to both kids and adults alike. The combination of tender chicken and hearty penne pasta creates a satisfying meal that will leave everyone feeling content and happy. Plus, the vibrant green onions add a fresh touch that elevates the dish, making it visually appealing and delicious.
One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adapt it to suit your family's preferences by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or even swapping the chicken for shredded turkey or rotisserie chicken. This adaptability means that you can enjoy Crack Chicken Penne any time of year, making it a staple in your recipe collection.
Quick and Easy Preparation
This Crack Chicken Penne recipe is designed for busy families. The ingredients are straightforward, and the cooking process is simple, making it an excellent choice for novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike. With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time, allowing you to spend more quality time with your loved ones.
The minimal cleanup involved is another bonus. By preparing the chicken mixture in one skillet and cooking the pasta in a separate pot, you reduce the number of dishes to wash afterward. This efficiency makes it an ideal recipe for those hectic evenings when you need to get dinner on the table quickly without sacrificing flavor.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you're hosting a special dinner party or simply enjoying a weeknight meal with your family, Crack Chicken Penne fits the bill. Its creamy, cheesy goodness makes it a crowd-pleaser that will impress your guests while keeping your family satisfied. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some garlic bread for a complete and delightful dining experience.
Additionally, this dish is great for meal prep. You can make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge for easy lunches throughout the week. Just reheat and enjoy the comforting flavors again, proving that great taste doesn't have to come at the expense of time or effort.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
- Salt for boiling water
For the Crack Chicken
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
Make sure to have all ingredients prepped and ready for a smooth cooking process.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
Cook the Pasta
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.
Prepare the Crack Chicken Mixture
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne pasta to the chicken mixture. Stir in the cheddar cheese and green onions. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
Serve warm and enjoy this delicious meal with your family!
Serving Suggestions
To enhance the dining experience, consider serving Crack Chicken Penne with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. The bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, while a salad adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the dish. You can also offer a selection of toppings such as extra shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, or avocado for guests to customize their plates.
Pairing this dish with a light white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling water infused with lemon, can elevate the meal. The acidity of these drinks balances the richness of the Crack Chicken, creating a harmonious dining experience.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers, you'll be pleased to know that Crack Chicken Penne stores well. Place any remaining dish in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the dish seems a bit dry, add a splash of chicken broth or a bit of cream to bring back its creamy texture. This way, you can savor the delightful flavors of Crack Chicken Penne, even days later!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
→ Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Yes, you can replace chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it before serving.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Crack Chicken Penne Families Love
This delicious Crack Chicken Penne dish is sure to become a family favorite, combining creamy flavors with tender chicken and pasta.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Comfort Dinner Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
- Salt for boiling water
For the Crack Chicken
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sliced green onions
How-To Steps
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 over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until the cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the chicken mixture. Stir in the cheddar cheese and green onions. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until heated through.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 25g