Crack Chicken Penne

Crack Chicken Penne is a mouthwateringly delicious and creamy pasta dish that will have you coming back for seconds, or even thirds. The name doesn���t do justice to the explosion of flavor coming from juicy chicken, penne pasta, and a rich creamy cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for family dinners, friendly potlucks, or even meal prep for the busy week ahead.

What makes Crack Chicken Penne so fantastic is its simplicity, yet still being packed with tantalizing tastes. Trust me, once you try this, your taste buds will thank you, and you’ll be the star of your next dinner party.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Yield: 4 servings of deliciously creamy penne

So, let’s not babble any more and move onto the real stuff, the Crack Chicken Penne recipe!

Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need

• 2 cups penne pasta
• 2 chicken breasts
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 packet of Ranch dressing mix
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Chopped green onion for garnishing

Equipment

• Large pot
• Pan

The cream cheese and shredded cheese in this recipe give this dish its signature creaminess and richness. The Ranch dressing mix is the secret ingredient here, which gives it an unexpected depth of flavor. The chicken and pasta work together to make this dish hearty and filling. If necessary, any cheese can be used as a substitute for the cheddar.

How To Make Crack Chicken Penne

1. First, start by boiling your penne pasta in a large pot according to package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
2. While your pasta is boiling, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked all the way through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Next, in the same pan, add cream cheese, minced garlic and ranch dressing mix. Cook until the cheese has fully melted and the ingredients have combined.
4. Now, return the cooked chicken to the pan, you’ll want to stir this around so the chicken can soak up all the flavours from the cheese sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
5. Finally, add the cooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese, stir until well combined. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese is completely melted. Garnish with green onions before serving.

Tips For The Best Results

• Cook the pasta al dente for the best texture.
• Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
• Add some cooked bacon bits for extra flavor.

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Can be reheated on the stove or microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use any other type of pasta?

A: Yes, you can substitute penne with any other pasta of your choice.

Q: Can I add any vegetables to this dish?

A: Absolutely, bell peppers or peas would work great in this recipe.

Q: Can this dish be made ahead of time?

A: Yes, just prepare everything and combine when ready to serve.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

A: Sure, but freshly shredded cheese will melt better and give a creamier texture.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?

A: Yes, just make sure it’s completely cooled before freezing. It can be frozen up to a month.

Nutritional Facts of Crack Chicken Penne

Calories: 630 kcal; Carbohydrates: 48g; Protein: 35g; Fat: 30g; Saturated Fat: 15g; Sodium: 1600mg; Fiber: 2g; Sugar: 4g

So, there you have it, my recipe for Crack Chicken Penne. The creamy richness, coupled with the hearty chicken and pasta, make this dish a winner any time. Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party, or meal prepping for the week, I guarantee it���ll be gone before you know it. Enjoy!