Quick Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy, and addictive pasta dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful seasonings, and perfectly cooked penne in a luscious sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes,

it’s an easy one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food with minimal effort.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients Overview

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best for this recipe.
Penne Pasta: The perfect shape to hold the creamy sauce.
Cream Cheese: Adds richness and creaminess.
Ranch Seasoning: Brings bold and zesty flavors to the dish.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar for a gooey, melty finish.

Ingredients

1 lb penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz cream cheese, softened and cubed
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, cook penne pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

2. Cook the Chicken

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.

3. Make the Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the chicken. Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Add cream cheese cubes and stir until melted and smooth.

4. Combine and Finish

Add the cooked penne pasta back into the pot, tossing to coat it evenly with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.

5. Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

Recipe Tips

Cut Evenly: Dice chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
Cream Cheese: Soften the cream cheese beforehand for easier melting.
Add Vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for a nutritious twist.
Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken.

What to Serve With This Recipe

Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness.
Roasted Vegetables: Try roasted zucchini, carrots, or asparagus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any short pasta like rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli works well.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the dish and refrigerate before adding the shredded cheese. Reheat and stir in the cheese just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy boost.
Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or iced tea for a complete meal.

Creamy, comforting, and bursting with flavor, this Quick Crack Chicken Penne is sure to become a family favorite!