Name: Crack Chicken Penne: A Creamy, Cheesy Comfort Food Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 oz ranch seasoning; 4 cups chicken stock; 1/2 pound penne pasta; 6 oz cream cheese, cubed; 10.5 oz cream of chicken soup; 8 oz Colby jack cheese, shredded (1½ cups for pasta, ½ cup for topping); 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, divided

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crack Chicken Penne is the epitome of comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and irresistibly flavorful. This one-pot dish combines tender chicken and penne pasta in a rich ranch-seasoned sauce, making it a family favorite that’s both easy to prepare and hard to resist.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
1/2 cup chopped yellow onion
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 oz ranch seasoning
4 cups chicken stock
1/2 pound penne pasta
6 oz cream cheese, cubed
10.5 oz cream of chicken soup
8 oz Colby jack cheese, shredded (1½ cups for pasta, ½ cup for topping)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, divided

Directions

Brown the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the cubed chicken, chopped onion, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is lightly browned, about 5–6 minutes. The chicken doesn’t need to be fully cooked through at this point.
Add Seasoning and Broth: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the chicken mixture. Pour in the chicken stock and bring to a boil.
Cook the Pasta: Add the penne pasta to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Make the Sauce: Uncover the skillet and stir in the cream cheese and cream of chicken soup until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
Add Cheese: Stir in 1½ cups of shredded Colby jack cheese. Continue to cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce is well combined.
Finish and Serve: Top the dish with the remaining ½ cup of shredded Colby jack cheese. Cover and let it sit for 3–4 minutes, or until the cheese has melted. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetable Add-ins: Incorporate spinach, broccoli, or peas for added nutrition and color.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the skillet for a spicy version.
Different Cheeses: Substitute Colby jack with sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of Italian cheeses.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free penne pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Freezing: Not recommended, as cream-based sauces may separate upon thawing.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, you can use shredded rotisserie chicken. Add it after the pasta has cooked and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes, omit the chicken, substitute vegetable broth for chicken stock, and use plant-based cream cheese and cheese alternatives to make it vegetarian.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, prepare the dish up to the point of adding the cream cheese and cheese. Refrigerate and reheat gently, then add the cheeses and garnish before serving.

What can I serve with Crack Chicken Penne?

Pair it with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. While penne is ideal, you can substitute with rigatoni, rotini, or bowtie pasta.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the skillet during cooking.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping. Store individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

Can I use low-fat cream cheese?

Yes, but be aware that low-fat cream cheese may result in a slightly less creamy texture.

How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?

Stir the pasta occasionally during cooking and ensure there’s enough liquid in the skillet.

Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, sauté the chicken and onion first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours, adding the pasta and cheese during the last 30 minutes.

Conclusion

Crack Chicken Penne is a delectable, one-pot meal that brings together the rich flavors of creamy cheese and tender chicken. Its simplicity and versatility make it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With easy preparation and minimal cleanup, it’s a dish that promises satisfaction in every bite.