How to make Easy Crack Chicken Penne
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine cream cheese, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken and stir until well combined.
- Mix in the cooked penne pasta and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the pasta is coated and the cheese is melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Crack Chicken Penne
This dish combines creamy, cheesy goodness with tender chicken and pasta, making it a perfect comfort food. The ranch seasoning adds a burst of flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table. The ease and speed of this recipe make it ideal for busy weeknight dinners. If you enjoy this dish, you might also love exploring Crack Chicken Casserole, as it offers a similar delicious taste with a twist.
Nutritional Benefits
Penne pasta is a good source of carbohydrates, providing the energy you need for your day. Chicken breast is a lean protein that helps build and repair tissue. Cream cheese and cheddar cheese contribute calcium and healthy fats, adding both flavor and nutrients. Including green onions as a garnish adds a hint of vitamins and minerals, enhancing the dish both visually and nutritionally.
What to Serve With Easy Crack Chicken Penne
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. A light dressing can help balance the richness of the pasta. You can also serve it alongside Bang Bang Chicken Bowl for a delightful variety. The contrast of flavors between the two dishes will elevate your mealtime experience, making it more enjoyable.
How to Store Easy Crack Chicken Penne
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave the dish until warm, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. If you want to make ahead, consider preparing Crockpot BBQ Chicken as a complement; it stores very well and can provide a tasty addition to your meals throughout the week.
Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Pasta: Make sure to cook your penne until it is al dente, as it will continue to soften when mixed with the other ingredients.
- Not Mixing Well: Be sure to thoroughly combine the cream cheese and chicken broth; lumps can create a less creamy texture.
- Skipping Seasoning: Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjusting the seasoning is key to bringing all the flavors together.
- Variations: If you’re looking to spice things up, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or cooked bacon for an extra kick. You might also enjoy Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps as another variation of a quick and easy meal.
Variations
Feel free to customize this recipe based on your preferences. You can substitute different types of pasta, such as rotini or fusilli. Adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers can enhance the nutrition and flavor. For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free pasta and ensure your ranch seasoning is gluten-free as well. If you’re looking for something different, try making the dish with cottage cheese and parmesan, inspired by the recipe for Firecracker Chicken, for a lighter take.
FAQs
1. Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked chicken can save time and enhance the flavor.
2. How do I make the dish spicier?
To add some spice, try incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the sauce mixture.
3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This dish keeps well in the fridge and can be easily reheated, making it a great meal prep option for busy weeks.
4. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day ahead, store it in the refrigerator, and reheat it when ready to serve. Just remember to stir well to ensure an even consistency.
Enjoy making this Easy Crack Chicken Penne and delight your family with its cheesy, savory flavors that bring comfort to the dinner table!
Print
Easy Crack Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A creamy, cheesy pasta dish combining tender chicken and ranch seasoning for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 1 cup cream cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, combine cream cheese, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken and stir until well combined.
- Mix in the cooked penne pasta and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the pasta is coated and the cheese is melted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions.
Notes
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
