Crack Chicken Penne Families Love

Name: Crack Chicken Penne Families Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups penne pasta; 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Recipes

This Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, flavorful dish that the entire family will adore. Packed with tender chicken, cheesy goodness, and a hint of ranch seasoning, it’s the perfect weeknight meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:46:20.881Z

This dish combines the classic flavors of crack chicken with penne pasta, creating a comforting meal the whole family will love. With minimal prep time and a quick cook, it's perfect for busy weeknights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta
Easy to make and ready in under an hour
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Kid-friendly flavors that please even the pickiest eaters

      

The Perfect Family Meal

Finding a meal that satisfies everyone in the family can be a daunting task, but this Crack Chicken Penne is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, it’s a dish that brings smiles to the table. The ranch seasoning adds a delightful twist that kids love, while adults appreciate the comforting taste. Plus, it’s easy to whip up on busy weeknights, making it an ideal choice for family dinners.

Another great aspect of this dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it by adding vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers to boost the nutritional value. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds color and texture to the meal. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. It's a dish that encourages family members to gather around the table and enjoy a hearty meal together.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the standout features of Crack Chicken Penne is its quick preparation time. In under an hour, you can have a delicious meal ready to serve. This is particularly beneficial for those hectic weekdays when time is of the essence. The process is straightforward, involving simple steps that are easy to follow, making it a great recipe for novice cooks as well as seasoned chefs looking for a reliable go-to dish.

Additionally, the use of common pantry staples such as ranch seasoning and cream cheese means you likely have most of the ingredients on hand. This accessibility makes it a great last-minute option. With minimal effort, you can create a comforting meal that feels indulgent but is simple to prepare, allowing you to spend more time enjoying dinner with your family rather than stressing in the kitchen.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

Crack Chicken Penne is not only a fantastic dinner option, but it also excels in the realm of meal prep. This dish can be made in larger batches, allowing you to prepare meals for the week in one go. Simply store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge, and you’ll have delicious lunches or quick dinners at your fingertips. Reheating is a breeze, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Moreover, the flavors of Crack Chicken Penne tend to deepen and improve after a day in the fridge, making it even more enjoyable as leftovers. Whether you’re packing it for lunch or serving it again for dinner, your family will appreciate the comforting taste that feels just as fresh the second time around. It’s a recipe that truly keeps on giving!

Ingredients

For the Crack Chicken Penne

2 cups penne pasta
1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients well and enjoy!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, and chicken broth. Stir until cream cheese is melted and the mixture is smooth.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked penne pasta and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet. Mix well until the pasta is coated with the creamy sauce.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy!

Enjoy your meal!

Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure that you properly cook and shred your chicken. Using rotisserie chicken can also save time and add flavor. Additionally, consider adjusting the amount of ranch seasoning to your taste preference; some may prefer a more pronounced ranch flavor, while others may want a subtler hint. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the cheese, substituting with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

If you want to incorporate some greens, consider adding fresh spinach or peas to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your dish. Be mindful of the cooking time to ensure the vegetables remain vibrant and retain their texture.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, serve Crack Chicken Penne with a side salad or garlic bread. A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread can soak up any leftover creamy sauce. These pairings not only enhance the meal but also create a more rounded dining experience.

For a special touch, consider garnishing with additional chopped green onions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can also add extra flavor and creaminess. These small additions can make your meal feel more gourmet and pleasing to the eye.

Storage and Reheating

When storing leftover Crack Chicken Penne, make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. This helps to prevent moisture buildup, which can make the pasta soggy. Stored properly, it can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions, which can be a lifesaver on busy days.

To reheat, you can either microwave individual servings or warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to help loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through. This method not only ensures that the dish remains creamy but also helps to bring back the original flavor and texture of the meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken works great in this recipe.

→ What can I substitute for cream cheese?

You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish and refrigerate it. Just reheat before serving.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free penne pasta.