Dinner

Crack Chicken Penne Recipe

ByLily Cross January 15, 2026January 15, 2026

Introduction

Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, cheesy pasta dish loaded with tender chicken and a flavorful ranch-seasoned sauce. It’s easy to make and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that everyone will love.

A close-up view of creamy pasta with grilled chicken strips on top, showing two main layers: the bottom layer is penne pasta coated in a rich, smooth cream sauce with a light yellow color and soft texture, and the top layer consists of golden-brown grilled chicken pieces with a slightly crispy surface, sprinkled with small green parsley bits and black pepper flakes for color contrast. The dish is presented on a white plate resting on a white marbled surface, with a woman's hand holding a fork lifting some pasta from the plate. 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 them in the skillet until golden brown and cooked through, then set aside.
Step 3: Cook penne pasta in boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
Step 4: Lower the skillet heat to medium. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning mix to the skillet. Whisk continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the sauce.
Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 7: If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if using, and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version without sacrificing flavor.
Swap cheddar cheese for mozzarella or pepper jack for a different cheesy twist.
Add cooked bacon bits for extra smoky flavor and crunch.
Fresh garlic can replace garlic powder for a more intense garlic taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up view of creamy pasta with grilled chicken pieces. The pasta is coated in a smooth, cheesy sauce that is light yellow in color and soft in texture. On top and mixed within the pasta are slices of golden-brown grilled chicken, with a slightly crispy surface and a few places showing grill marks. Small green parsley leaves are sprinkled over the dish, adding a fresh contrast. The whole dish rests on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute the penne pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta to keep the dish gluten-free.

Is it possible to prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and pasta ahead, then store them separately from the sauce. Combine and reheat everything just before serving for best results.