Delightful Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

The aroma of Crack Chicken Penne wafts through your kitchen like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender pieces of chicken swimming in a creamy sauce, mingling with perfectly cooked penne pasta—the kind of meal that makes you want to curl up on the couch and savor every bite. It’s the ultimate comfort food that wraps around you like your favorite blanket.

This dish has become a staple in our household ever since that fateful night when I accidentally spilled an entire jar of garlic powder into the pot. Instead of chaos (and a potential fire), we created magic and laughter over dinner. Now, Crack Chicken Penne is our go-to for family gatherings and cozy nights in—definitely not just for when you’re feeling under the weather!

I still chuckle when I think about my friend’s face after her first bite—it was sheer bliss mixed with disbelief!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts are ideal; adjust based on your crowd size.
• Penne Pasta: Look for high-quality penne to hold onto that luscious sauce.
• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for extra richness; nobody wants bland pasta!
• Chicken Broth: Opt for low sodium so you can control the saltiness.
• Garlic Powder: This is essential; use fresh garlic if you’re feeling fancy.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs that adds depth and flavor to the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated works best; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
• Green Onions: For garnish and a pop of color; they add freshness too!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 10-12 minutes.

Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and no longer pink—about 6-8 minutes.

Add Flavorings: Stir in garlic powder and Italian seasoning while your chicken sizzles; let those spices bloom for extra flavor!

Create the Sauce: Reduce heat to low, then mix cream cheese into your skillet until melted and smooth. Slowly pour in chicken broth while stirring continuously until combined.

Combine Everything: Drain your cooked penne and add it directly into the skillet with the sauce mixture. Toss everything together until well-coated—this is where magic happens!

Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over your glorious creation along with chopped green onions for that final touch before serving.

Your kitchen will smell heavenly as you prepare this delightful dish!

Crack Chicken Penne is not just food; it’s an experience filled with laughter, warmth, and fantastic flavors—one bite at a time!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken to lock in flavor. While it cooks, boil the penne pasta and prepare the creamy sauce simultaneously for the best results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or add veggies like spinach or bell peppers. Experiment with spices to create your own signature version.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.

Cooking up this Crack Chicken Penne reminds me of family gatherings, where everyone devoured it faster than I could serve! The laughter and compliments made every effort worth it.

FAQ

Can I make Crack Chicken Penne ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it earlier and reheat when ready to serve.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese can be great alternatives if you’re looking for lighter options.

How do I prevent my pasta from sticking?

Make sure to stir occasionally during boiling and use enough water while cooking the penne.

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Crack Chicken Penne

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Indulge in this creamy, savory dish featuring tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, it’s a meal that warms the heart.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

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• 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• High-quality penne pasta
• 8 oz cream cheese (full-fat)
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped green onions for garnish

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Instructions

1. 1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Add penne and cook until al dente (10-12 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. 2. Sauté the Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Cook diced chicken until golden brown and no longer pink (6-8 minutes).
3. 3. Add Flavorings: Stir in garlic powder and Italian seasoning to the chicken, allowing spices to bloom.
4. 4. Create the Sauce: Lower heat, mix in cream cheese until melted, then gradually stir in chicken broth until smooth.
5. 5. Combine Everything: Add drained penne to the sauce mixture and toss until well-coated.
6. 6. Garnish & Serve: Top with Parmesan cheese and green onions before serving.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 51g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 85mg