Crack Chicken Penne Families Love

Name: Crack Chicken Penne Families Love
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup cream cheese, softened; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 packet ranch seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

This delightful Crack Chicken Penne is a family favorite that combines creamy flavors with tender chicken and penne pasta for a dish everyone will enjoy.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-10T15:35:20.527Z

This Crack Chicken Penne dish is a favorite in many households. It's easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy and cheesy goodness in every bite
Quick and easy to prepare for busy families
Packed with flavor that pleases both kids and adults

      

A Comforting Family Meal

When it comes to family dinners, comfort food reigns supreme, and this Crack Chicken Penne is no exception. The creamy sauce combined with tender pieces of chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta creates a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s the type of meal that brings everyone together around the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.

This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also delights the senses with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Whether you’re serving it to picky eaters or culinary adventurers, this recipe is sure to please everyone. It’s hearty enough to offer a fulfilling meal, yet simple enough for anyone to whip up in no time.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of Crack Chicken Penne is its versatility. Not only does it make a fantastic dinner, but it also excels as a leftover meal. You can easily prepare a larger batch and store the leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just reheat, and you’re ready to enjoy this creamy delight again!

To add even more variety, consider varying the ingredients based on what you have on hand. This dish allows for substitutions, whether you prefer different types of cheese or want to add in some vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Meal prepping has never been so delicious!

Kid-Friendly and Full of Flavor

Getting kids to enjoy a meal can sometimes be a challenge, but this Crack Chicken Penne makes it easy. The creamy, cheesy sauce and familiar flavors of ranch seasoning are usually a hit with younger palates. Plus, the fun shape of penne pasta adds an element of excitement that can entice even the pickiest eaters to dig in.

Involving kids in the cooking process can also make them more inclined to eat what they’ve helped prepare. Let them stir the sauce or sprinkle the cheese on top before serving. This not only creates a fun family activity but also helps instill good eating habits from a young age.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup chicken broth
1 packet ranch seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients measured and ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

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

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cream cheese, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning to the skillet. Stir until well combined and creamy.

Add Pasta and Cheese

Mix in the cooked penne and cheddar cheese until everything is coated and heated through. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot. Enjoy!

Let the dish cool slightly before serving. It's great for leftovers too!

Tips for Success

To ensure your Crack Chicken Penne comes out perfectly every time, make sure your chicken is diced evenly. This will help it cook consistently and avoid any undercooked pieces. Also, don’t rush the cream cheese incorporation; allowing it to soften fully will lead to a smoother sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta.

If you want to add a little more depth of flavor, consider sautéing some garlic or onions along with the chicken. These aromatics will enhance the overall taste of the dish, making it even more irresistible.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Crack Chicken Penne with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the dish. A light vinaigrette or a squeeze of lemon can brighten up the meal and add some freshness to every bite.

For an extra touch, consider offering some crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce, ensuring that every last bit is enjoyed. This combination will not only satisfy the whole family but also elevate your dining experience.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce if it thickens up in the fridge.

For longer storage, consider freezing your Crack Chicken Penne. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, and it can last for up to three months. Just remember to label the containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you prefer can be used in this recipe.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

You can replace the chicken with tofu or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.