Crack Chicken Penne

Introduction

If you’re a fan of indulgent comfort food that’s both rich and satisfying, look no further than Crack Chicken Penne. This irresistible pasta dish combines tender penne pasta with a creamy, cheesy sauce, and is packed with savory, zesty chicken and seasonings that will have you coming back for more. Crack Chicken Penne is a fan-favorite for its smooth, creamy texture and flavor-packed profile, making it a perfect dish for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or any time you need a meal that is as comforting as it is delicious.

The name “Crack Chicken” comes from the idea that this dish is so addictively delicious, it’s hard to stop eating once you’ve had a bite. The blend of creamy ranch, cheddar cheese, and tender chicken makes it an unforgettable dish that people rave about. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or serving it at a special occasion, Crack Chicken Penne is sure to please everyone at the table.

In this article, we’ll explore why Crack Chicken Penne is such a beloved recipe, provide a step-by-step guide on how to prepare it, and offer tips on how to customize the dish to suit your tastes. We’ll also discuss serving ideas, nutritional information, and helpful variations to make this dish your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Cheesy: The creamy ranch sauce paired with melted cheddar cheese creates a rich, velvety coating for the penne pasta, making every bite feel like a warm hug.
• Savory and Flavorful: The chicken is seasoned with the perfect blend of spices, and the addition of ranch seasoning enhances the overall flavor.
• Simple and Quick: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal in a short amount of time.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy flavors are perfect for kids, and they’ll love how easy it is to enjoy this dish.
• Customizable: While the base recipe is delicious as is, you can easily customize it by adding vegetables, swapping the pasta shape, or adjusting the spice levels.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Total Time: 30 minutes (10 minutes for prep, 20 minutes for cooking)
• Servings: This recipe serves about 4-6 people, depending on portion size.
• Nutrition Facts (per serving):
• Calories: 450
• Protein: 30g
• Carbs: 35g
• Fat: 25g
• Fiber: 2g

Ingredients

Chicken:

• 2 large chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. You can also use thighs if you prefer dark meat.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor to the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall taste of the chicken.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Provides a hint of smokiness and color.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the chicken.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For seasoning.

Sauce:

• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix: This is the key to the distinctive “Crack Chicken” flavor. You can use a homemade ranch seasoning mix if preferred.
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese: Softened, cream cheese adds the creamy texture to the sauce.
• 1 cup heavy cream: This creates the silky smooth texture in the sauce.
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully and adds richness to the dish.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, nutty flavor that complements the cheddar.
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a subtle tanginess to balance the richness of the cheese.
• Salt and pepper to taste: For adjusting the seasoning.

Pasta:

• 1 lb penne pasta: Penne works well for holding the creamy sauce, but you can substitute with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or rotini.
• Salt for boiling pasta water: To enhance the flavor of the pasta.

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped parsley: Adds a fresh, green element for color and flavor.
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese: For topping, to make the dish extra cheesy.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who like a little heat.

Step-by-Step Preparation

FIRST STEP: COOK THE CHICKEN

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasonings into the chicken to ensure even coverage.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes.
3. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken has rested, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks or your hands.

SECOND STEP: COOK THE PASTA

1. Boil the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

THIRD STEP: MAKE THE CREAMY SAUCE

1. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet that you used for the chicken, add the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir well to combine, and cook over medium heat until the cream cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
2. Add the Cheese: Once the sauce is smooth, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese has completely melted into the sauce. Add Dijon mustard for a slight tanginess and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little extra heavy cream or milk to reach your desired consistency.

FOURTH STEP: COMBINE THE CHICKEN, PASTA, AND SAUCE

1. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta and shredded chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the sauce.
2. Simmer Together: Let the dish simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

FINAL STEP: GARNISH AND SERVE

1. Garnish: Once the Crack Chicken Penne is ready, sprinkle it with chopped parsley, extra cheddar cheese, and red pepper flakes (if desired).
2. Serve: Serve the dish hot, with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to complete the meal.

How to Serve Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne is a comforting and hearty meal that pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks. Here are some great serving ideas:

1. Serve with a Side Salad

To balance out the richness of the dish, serve Crack Chicken Penne with a light, refreshing salad. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette will complement the creamy pasta beautifully.

2. Pair with Garlic Bread

Nothing beats a warm slice of garlic bread alongside a creamy pasta dish. The crispy, buttery bread adds a perfect crunch and a savory element that pairs well with the creamy chicken penne.

3. Serve with Roasted Vegetables

To add some veggies to the meal, consider serving Crack Chicken Penne with roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots. Roasting enhances the flavors of vegetables and adds a nice contrast to the creamy pasta.

4. Perfect for Family Dinners

Crack Chicken Penne is an ideal dish for family dinners. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to prepare in large quantities, making it a great choice for feeding a crowd.

Additional Tips

1. Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can speed up the preparation process. Simply shred the chicken and add it to the sauce.
2. Add Vegetables: To make the dish even heartier, you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the sauce.
3. Spicy Version: If you enjoy some heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick.
4. Make it Gluten-Free: You can use gluten-free penne pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Recipe Variations

While Crack Chicken Penne is delicious as written, there are plenty of ways to customize the dish:

1. Add Vegetables

Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.

2. Use Different Cheeses

While cheddar cheese is the go-to for this recipe, you can try different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or gouda, to change the flavor profile.

3. Make it Spicy

For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

4. Make it Dairy-Free

If you’re lactose intolerant or following a dairy-free diet, you can substitute the cream cheese and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like coconut cream and vegan cheese.

Freezing and Storage

Crack Chicken Penne can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, simply allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the dish in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.

Special Equipment

• Large Skillet: For cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce.
• Large Pot: For boiling the pasta.
• Sharp Knife: For shredding the chicken.
• Spatula: For mixing the ingredients together.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of chicken breasts?
   Yes, ground chicken is a great alternative and will cook more quickly. Just be sure to season it well.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
   Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or bowtie pasta.
3. How can I make this dish lower in fat?
   You can use reduced-fat cream cheese and skim milk instead of heavy cream to make the dish lighter.
4. Can I add bacon or sausage?
   Yes, you can add cooked bacon or sausage for an extra flavor boost.
5. Can I prepare Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the dish and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake and serve. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly.

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Conclusion

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy, and downright irresistible comfort food that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you need a delicious, satisfying meal. With its combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful ranch seasoning, it’s no wonder this dish is a family favorite. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual dinner or serving it at a special occasion, Crack Chicken Penne is sure to impress and leave everyone coming back for seconds. Try it today and enjoy a meal that’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!