Creamy Crack Chicken Penne Flavorful Dinner Delight

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- 8 oz penne pasta - 1 lb chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 packet ranch seasoning mix - 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1 cup chicken broth (preferably low-sodium) - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option) - 1/2 cup green onions, sliced finely - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish Creating a great meal starts with the right ingredients. For this creamy crack chicken penne, you will need penne pasta, chicken breasts, and some key seasonings. The ranch seasoning mix brings a unique flavor that makes this dish special. Cream cheese and cheddar cheese create that rich, creamy texture we love. You can use bacon bits for a savory crunch, but feel free to swap in turkey bacon if you prefer a lighter option. Green onions add a fresh taste and vibrant color. Don't forget garlic powder, salt, and pepper. These ingredients help to enhance all the flavors. Finally, fresh parsley is perfect for garnish. It adds a nice pop of color and a hint of freshness. Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish a flavorful dinner delight. Gather these items, and you’ll be ready to create a meal your family will love! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This water will help cook the pasta. 2. Add 8 oz of penne pasta to the boiling water. Cook it until it is al dente, about 8-10 minutes. 3. Once the pasta is done, drain it well. Be sure to save a small cup of pasta water to use later if needed. 1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers before adding chicken. 2. Add 1 lb of diced chicken breasts to the skillet. Season it with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. 3. Sauté the chicken for about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, reaching 165°F (75°C). 1. Sprinkle 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix over the cooked chicken. Stir it well to coat the chicken evenly. 2. Lower the heat to medium-low. Add 1 cup of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of chicken broth to the skillet. 3. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and mixes with the broth, forming a smooth sauce. 4. Gradually mix in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it melts. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. 1. Carefully fold in the cooked penne pasta and 1/2 cup of cooked bacon bits. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated well with the sauce. 2. Cook the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes. This helps heat everything through. 3. Stir in 1/2 cup of sliced green onions, mixing them evenly into the pasta. 4. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. - How to check chicken doneness: Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures it's safe to eat. - Avoiding a thick sauce: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. This keeps the sauce creamy and smooth. Stir well to blend. - Keeping pasta from sticking: Stir the pasta immediately after draining. A little olive oil helps keep it from clumping together. - Presentation ideas for serving: Serve in shallow bowls for a nice look. Add extra bacon bits and green onions on top for texture. A sprinkle of parsley adds color. - Pairing with sides or salads: Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. These sides balance the creamy dish and add crunch. Pro Tips Perfect Pasta: Always cook the penne pasta until al dente for the best texture. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Seasoning Balance: Taste your sauce before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper to ensure a well-balanced flavor. Cheese Tip: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and a creamier sauce. Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. {{image_4}} You can easily change this dish to fit your needs. If you want a lighter option, try using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. This swap keeps the flavor but cuts down on fat. You can also make the dish gluten-free by using gluten-free penne pasta. This way, everyone can enjoy it! Get creative with the flavors in this dish! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli. These will boost nutrition and add color. You could also experiment with different cheese types. Try using pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder taste. Each change makes the dish unique and fun! To keep your creamy crack chicken penne fresh, use proper storage containers. Glass or plastic containers with tight lids work well. Let the dish cool before putting it in the fridge. This step helps it stay creamy and tasty. Aim to store it within two hours of cooking for best results. For reheating, the best methods are using the stove or microwave. If using the stove, place it in a skillet over low heat. Stir often to avoid burning. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it creamy. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir between intervals until it’s hot. Always check the temperature to ensure it heats evenly. Crack Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines chicken, ranch seasoning, and cheese. It has a rich and savory taste with hints of garlic and herbs. Many people love its creamy texture and comforting flavor. This dish often features bacon bits for added crunch and a burst of flavor. Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Prepare the creamy sauce and chicken mixture without the pasta. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to serve, cook the penne pasta and mix it with the sauce. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld nicely. To add some heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also use spicy ranch seasoning if you want more kick. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce when mixing in the cream cheese. Adjust to your taste for the perfect spice level! This blog post covered a tasty dish called Crack Chicken. You learned the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. We discussed cooking and serving ideas to make your meal stand out. Don't forget the variations for dietary needs and flavor tweaks. Proper storage ensures your leftovers stay fresh. With these details, you can confidently make your own delicious Crack Chicken. Enjoy the flavors and feel free to get creative with your version!

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Looking for a dinner that’s rich in flavor and super easy to make? You’ve hit the jackpot with my Creamy Crack Chicken Penne! This dish is loaded with mouthwatering ingredients like tender chicken, creamy ranch sauce, and crispy bacon. Perfect for busy nights, it’s a meal your family will devour. Join me as we dive into this quick and tasty recipe that brings comfort to the table in under 30 minutes!

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Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This creamy ranch chicken penne pasta comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Flavor Packed: The combination of ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and cheddar creates a rich and delicious sauce that coats every bite.
  3. Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients like bacon for turkey bacon or add your favorite vegetables to suit your taste.
  4. Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it a go-to recipe for family dinners.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 8 oz penne pasta

– 1 lb chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 packet ranch seasoning mix

– 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature

– 1 cup chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)

– 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

– 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option)

– 1/2 cup green onions, sliced finely

– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Creating a great meal starts with the right ingredients. For this creamy crack chicken penne, you will need penne pasta, chicken breasts, and some key seasonings. The ranch seasoning mix brings a unique flavor that makes this dish special. Cream cheese and cheddar cheese create that rich, creamy texture we love.

You can use bacon bits for a savory crunch, but feel free to swap in turkey bacon if you prefer a lighter option. Green onions add a fresh taste and vibrant color. Don’t forget garlic powder, salt, and pepper. These ingredients help to enhance all the flavors.

Finally, fresh parsley is perfect for garnish. It adds a nice pop of color and a hint of freshness. Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish a flavorful dinner delight. Gather these items, and you’ll be ready to create a meal your family will love!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This water will help cook the pasta.

2. Add 8 oz of penne pasta to the boiling water. Cook it until it is al dente, about 8-10 minutes.

3. Once the pasta is done, drain it well. Be sure to save a small cup of pasta water to use later if needed.

Preparing the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers before adding chicken.

2. Add 1 lb of diced chicken breasts to the skillet. Season it with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.

3. Sauté the chicken for about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, reaching 165°F (75°C).

Making the Creamy Sauce

1. Sprinkle 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix over the cooked chicken. Stir it well to coat the chicken evenly.

2. Lower the heat to medium-low. Add 1 cup of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of chicken broth to the skillet.

3. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and mixes with the broth, forming a smooth sauce.

4. Gradually mix in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it melts. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Combining Ingredients

1. Carefully fold in the cooked penne pasta and 1/2 cup of cooked bacon bits. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated well with the sauce.

2. Cook the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes. This helps heat everything through.

3. Stir in 1/2 cup of sliced green onions, mixing them evenly into the pasta.

4. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Tips

– How to check chicken doneness: Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s safe to eat.

– Avoiding a thick sauce: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. This keeps the sauce creamy and smooth. Stir well to blend.

– Keeping pasta from sticking: Stir the pasta immediately after draining. A little olive oil helps keep it from clumping together.

Serving Suggestions

– Presentation ideas for serving: Serve in shallow bowls for a nice look. Add extra bacon bits and green onions on top for texture. A sprinkle of parsley adds color.

– Pairing with sides or salads: Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. These sides balance the creamy dish and add crunch.

Pro Tips

  1. Perfect Pasta: Always cook the penne pasta until al dente for the best texture. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
  2. Seasoning Balance: Taste your sauce before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper to ensure a well-balanced flavor.
  3. Cheese Tip: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and a creamier sauce.
  4. Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.

Variations

Dietary Adjustments

You can easily change this dish to fit your needs. If you want a lighter option, try using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. This swap keeps the flavor but cuts down on fat. You can also make the dish gluten-free by using gluten-free penne pasta. This way, everyone can enjoy it!

Flavor Variations

Get creative with the flavors in this dish! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli. These will boost nutrition and add color. You could also experiment with different cheese types. Try using pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder taste. Each change makes the dish unique and fun!

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your creamy crack chicken penne fresh, use proper storage containers. Glass or plastic containers with tight lids work well. Let the dish cool before putting it in the fridge. This step helps it stay creamy and tasty. Aim to store it within two hours of cooking for best results.

Reheating Instructions

For reheating, the best methods are using the stove or microwave. If using the stove, place it in a skillet over low heat. Stir often to avoid burning. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it creamy. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir between intervals until it’s hot. Always check the temperature to ensure it heats evenly.

FAQs

What is Crack Chicken?

Crack Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines chicken, ranch seasoning, and cheese. It has a rich and savory taste with hints of garlic and herbs. Many people love its creamy texture and comforting flavor. This dish often features bacon bits for added crunch and a burst of flavor.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Prepare the creamy sauce and chicken mixture without the pasta. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to serve, cook the penne pasta and mix it with the sauce. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld nicely.

How can I make it spicier?

To add some heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also use spicy ranch seasoning if you want more kick. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce when mixing in the cream cheese. Adjust to your taste for the perfect spice level!

This blog post covered a tasty dish called Crack Chicken. You learned the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. We discussed cooking and serving ideas to make your meal stand out. Don’t forget the variations for dietary needs and flavor tweaks. Proper storage ensures your leftovers stay fresh. With these details, you can confidently make your own delicious Crack Chicken. Enjoy the flavors and feel free to get creative with your versio

- 8 oz penne pasta - 1 lb chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 packet ranch seasoning mix - 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature - 1 cup chicken broth (preferably low-sodium) - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese - 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits (can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option) - 1/2 cup green onions, sliced finely - 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish Creating a great meal starts with the right ingredients. For this creamy crack chicken penne, you will need penne pasta, chicken breasts, and some key seasonings. The ranch seasoning mix brings a unique flavor that makes this dish special. Cream cheese and cheddar cheese create that rich, creamy texture we love. You can use bacon bits for a savory crunch, but feel free to swap in turkey bacon if you prefer a lighter option. Green onions add a fresh taste and vibrant color. Don't forget garlic powder, salt, and pepper. These ingredients help to enhance all the flavors. Finally, fresh parsley is perfect for garnish. It adds a nice pop of color and a hint of freshness. Each ingredient plays a role in making this dish a flavorful dinner delight. Gather these items, and you’ll be ready to create a meal your family will love! {{ingredient_image_2}} 1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This water will help cook the pasta. 2. Add 8 oz of penne pasta to the boiling water. Cook it until it is al dente, about 8-10 minutes. 3. Once the pasta is done, drain it well. Be sure to save a small cup of pasta water to use later if needed. 1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers before adding chicken. 2. Add 1 lb of diced chicken breasts to the skillet. Season it with 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. 3. Sauté the chicken for about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is browned and fully cooked, reaching 165°F (75°C). 1. Sprinkle 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix over the cooked chicken. Stir it well to coat the chicken evenly. 2. Lower the heat to medium-low. Add 1 cup of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of chicken broth to the skillet. 3. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and mixes with the broth, forming a smooth sauce. 4. Gradually mix in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it melts. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. 1. Carefully fold in the cooked penne pasta and 1/2 cup of cooked bacon bits. Make sure every piece of pasta is coated well with the sauce. 2. Cook the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes. This helps heat everything through. 3. Stir in 1/2 cup of sliced green onions, mixing them evenly into the pasta. 4. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed. - How to check chicken doneness: Use a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures it's safe to eat. - Avoiding a thick sauce: If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. This keeps the sauce creamy and smooth. Stir well to blend. - Keeping pasta from sticking: Stir the pasta immediately after draining. A little olive oil helps keep it from clumping together. - Presentation ideas for serving: Serve in shallow bowls for a nice look. Add extra bacon bits and green onions on top for texture. A sprinkle of parsley adds color. - Pairing with sides or salads: Serve with a fresh green salad or garlic bread. These sides balance the creamy dish and add crunch. Pro Tips Perfect Pasta: Always cook the penne pasta until al dente for the best texture. It will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Seasoning Balance: Taste your sauce before serving. Adjust the salt and pepper to ensure a well-balanced flavor. Cheese Tip: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese instead of pre-shredded for better melting and a creamier sauce. Ingredient Swaps: Feel free to customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. {{image_4}} You can easily change this dish to fit your needs. If you want a lighter option, try using turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. This swap keeps the flavor but cuts down on fat. You can also make the dish gluten-free by using gluten-free penne pasta. This way, everyone can enjoy it! Get creative with the flavors in this dish! You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli. These will boost nutrition and add color. You could also experiment with different cheese types. Try using pepper jack for a kick or mozzarella for a milder taste. Each change makes the dish unique and fun! To keep your creamy crack chicken penne fresh, use proper storage containers. Glass or plastic containers with tight lids work well. Let the dish cool before putting it in the fridge. This step helps it stay creamy and tasty. Aim to store it within two hours of cooking for best results. For reheating, the best methods are using the stove or microwave. If using the stove, place it in a skillet over low heat. Stir often to avoid burning. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it creamy. If using a microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir between intervals until it’s hot. Always check the temperature to ensure it heats evenly. Crack Chicken is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines chicken, ranch seasoning, and cheese. It has a rich and savory taste with hints of garlic and herbs. Many people love its creamy texture and comforting flavor. This dish often features bacon bits for added crunch and a burst of flavor. Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Prepare the creamy sauce and chicken mixture without the pasta. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to serve, cook the penne pasta and mix it with the sauce. This saves time and allows the flavors to meld nicely. To add some heat, try adding crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce. You can also use spicy ranch seasoning if you want more kick. For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of hot sauce when mixing in the cream cheese. Adjust to your taste for the perfect spice level! This blog post covered a tasty dish called Crack Chicken. You learned the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. We discussed cooking and serving ideas to make your meal stand out. Don't forget the variations for dietary needs and flavor tweaks. Proper storage ensures your leftovers stay fresh. With these details, you can confidently make your own delicious Crack Chicken. Enjoy the flavors and feel free to get creative with your version!

Creamy Ranch Chicken Penne Pasta

A delicious and creamy pasta dish featuring chicken, ranch seasoning, and cheese.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup chicken broth (preferably low-sodium)
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 2 cooked bacon bits (can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option)
  • 1 2 green onions, sliced finely
  • 1 2 garlic powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a small cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced chicken breasts. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Sauté the chicken for about 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pieces are browned and cooked through. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
  • After the chicken is fully cooked, sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over it. Stir well to evenly coat the chicken with the flavorful seasoning.
  • Lower the heat to medium-low, then add the softened cream cheese and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese fully melts and integrates into the broth, creating a smooth sauce.
  • Gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, continuing to stir until it completely melts and combines with the creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve your desired consistency.
  • Carefully fold in the cooked penne pasta and bacon bits, ensuring that every piece of pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.
  • Continue cooking the mixture for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing everything to heat through. Stir in the sliced green onions, mixing them evenly into the pasta.
  • Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.
  • Serve the creamy ranch chicken penne pasta hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

Serve in shallow bowls for an elegant look, and consider adding extra bacon bits and green onions on top.
Keyword chicken, creamy, dinner, pasta, ranch

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