Best Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
Highlighted under: Feel-Good Food Ideas
Make mealtime exciting with this creamy and flavorful Best Crack Chicken Penne recipe! Featuring tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich blend of spices and cream cheese, this dish is a family favorite that takes only minutes to prepare in your Crockpot. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, it's sure to impress everyone at the table!
This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for a family dinner or gathering. With its creamy texture and savory flavors, it is sure to become a household staple.
Creamy and Flavorful Delight
One of the standout features of the Best Crack Chicken Penne recipe is its incredible creaminess. The combination of cream cheese and cheddar cheese creates a rich, velvety sauce that envelops the pasta and chicken perfectly. Each bite is a delightful experience, making this dish a favorite among both kids and adults. The carefully selected spices enhance the flavors, ensuring that every mouthful is packed with taste.
The use of ranch seasoning mix introduces a unique twist to traditional pasta dishes. This seasoning not only adds depth to the flavor profile but also brings a familiar comfort that makes this meal feel like a warm hug. With just a few additional ingredients, you can elevate a simple chicken and pasta dish into a mouthwatering masterpiece.
Perfect for Meal Prep
The Best Crack Chicken Penne is an ideal choice for meal prepping. Its straightforward preparation process allows you to whip up a hefty batch that can be enjoyed throughout the week. Not only does this save time on busy nights, but it also provides a nutritious and hearty option that you can easily reheat. Just store individual portions in airtight containers, and you’re set for several meals.
Because it retains its flavor and creaminess after reheating, this dish makes fantastic leftovers. Simply pop it in the microwave, and in minutes, you'll have a satisfying meal ready to go. This feature is perfect for students, busy professionals, or anyone looking to simplify their dinner routine without sacrificing taste.
Versatility at Its Best
While this recipe shines with penne pasta, it is versatile enough to accommodate other pasta types as well. Whether you prefer rotini, macaroni, or even gluten-free options, feel free to get creative. Each variation offers a different texture and taste, allowing you to personalize the dish to your liking.
Additionally, you can customize the toppings to suit your preferences. For instance, try adding fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor. You can also incorporate vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for an extra nutritional boost, making this dish not just delicious but also health-conscious.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Make sure to check your pantry for any items you may already have!
Instructions
Follow these steps for a delicious meal.
Preparation
1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the Crockpot.
2. Add the ranch seasoning and chicken broth on top.
3. Cut the cream cheese into small cubes and place them over the chicken.
Cooking
4. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks in the Crockpot after cooking.
6. Stir in the cooked penne pasta and cheddar cheese until well combined.
7. Top with crumbled bacon and green onions before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Crack Chicken Penne!
Serving Suggestions
To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing the Best Crack Chicken Penne with a crisp salad. A simple side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette would complement the richness of the pasta beautifully. You could also serve it alongside garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up any extra sauce left on your plate.
For an even heartier option, serve this dish with steamed vegetables. Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans can add both color and health benefits to your meal. These sides not only enhance the overall presentation but also provide a wonderful balance to the creamy flavors of the chicken penne.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is key to enjoying your Best Crack Chicken Penne leftovers. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. When stored correctly in the refrigerator, it can last for up to four days, maintaining its delicious qualities. For longer storage, consider freezing portions.
When ready to enjoy frozen portions, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave. If the sauce appears a bit thick after reheating, feel free to stir in a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency. This ensures a delicious meal every time you reheat it.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
→ Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
You can use Greek yogurt or sour cream as a lighter alternative.
Best Crack Chicken Penne Recipe
Make mealtime exciting with this creamy and flavorful Best Crack Chicken Penne recipe! Featuring tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich blend of spices and cream cheese, this dish is a family favorite that takes only minutes to prepare in your Crockpot. Perfect for busy weeknights or potlucks, it's sure to impress everyone at the table!
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Feel-Good Food Ideas
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breasts
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- Chopped green onions for garnish
How-To Steps
1. Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the Crockpot.
2. Add the ranch seasoning and chicken broth on top.
3. Cut the cream cheese into small cubes and place them over the chicken.
4. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours.
5. Shred the chicken with two forks in the Crockpot after cooking.
6. Stir in the cooked penne pasta and cheddar cheese until well combined.
7. Top with crumbled bacon and green onions before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 25g