Name: Crack Chicken Penne
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 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.; 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.; 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.; 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.

Ingredients

Scale

For the 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.

For the 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.

For the 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.

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Instructions

FIRST STEP: COOK THE CHICKEN

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.
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.
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

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

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.
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.
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

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.
Simmer Together: Let the dish simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

FINAL STEP: GARNISH AND SERVE

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 6
Calories: 450
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g