Dinner

Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

ByLily Cross January 11, 2026January 11, 2026

Introduction

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish loaded with tender chicken and bold ranch flavors. It’s an easy, comforting meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners.

A close-up image of creamy pasta in a white bowl is shown, with penne pasta coated in a smooth, light yellow cream sauce forming the base layer. On top, there are several pieces of golden-brown grilled chicken, seasoned with specks of black pepper and small green parsley bits scattered around. The chicken pieces have a slightly crispy texture with charred spots. The background is a white marbled surface. The photo is vibrant and detailed, showing the mix of textures and colors clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
2 cups penne pasta
4 oz cream cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Season chicken strips with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sear in the skillet until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium and return the skillet to the stove. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning mix. Whisk continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until it melts into the sauce.
Step 6: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce. Toss gently to coat all pieces evenly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
Step 7: If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, add cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms.
Use rotini or fusilli pasta if penne is not available.
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
Fresh herbs like thyme or chives can be used instead of parsley for garnish.

Storage

Store leftover Crack Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

How to Serve

A close-up view of creamy pasta with penne noodles coated in a rich, light yellow sauce. On top, several pieces of golden-brown grilled chicken with a slightly crispy texture are scattered unevenly. Small green parsley leaves are sprinkled throughout, adding a touch of color contrast. The dish is presented on a white plate, resting on a white marbled surface. The overall look is warm and inviting, showing a mix of creamy, smooth sauce and textured grilled chicken. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts; just be sure to fully thaw them before slicing and cooking to ensure even cooking and proper texture.

Is ranch seasoning mix necessary for the flavor?

Ranch seasoning mix adds a distinctive tangy and savory profile, but you can substitute with your own blend of dried herbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt if you prefer.