Description
If you’re craving comfort food that hits all the right notes—creamy, cheesy, savory, and soul-satisfying—Delicious Crack Chicken Penne is about to become your new favorite. This easy recipe blends juicy, golden-seared chicken with rich cream cheese, melty cheddar, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all wrapped in the irresistible flavor of ranch seasoning. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner idea, a crowd-pleasing dish for guests, or a comforting meal-prep option, this quick dinner delivers. Perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors, easy recipes, and food ideas that feel like a warm hug, this dish is a creamy pasta dream you’ll want on repeat.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 10 oz penne pasta
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter (for searing)
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup pasta water.
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a pinch of ranch seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and rest, then slice.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds.
- Add cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until smooth and melted.
- Add shredded cheddar and remaining ranch seasoning. Stir until creamy.
- Toss in the cooked penne. Mix well. Add pasta water as needed to loosen sauce.
- Return sliced chicken to the skillet. Simmer together for 2–3 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and cracked black pepper. Serve hot.