Crack Chicken Penne Families Love
Highlighted under: Soulful Supper Recipes
This Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, flavorful dish that the whole family will enjoy. Packed with tender chicken and rich cheese, it's a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
This dish combines the comforting flavors of creamy chicken with hearty penne pasta, making it a favorite for family dinners. The secret lies in the seasoning and the creamy sauce that envelops each bite.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy sauce that's irresistible
- Quick and easy preparation for busy nights
- Loaded with protein to keep you satisfied
- Perfectly balanced flavors that everyone will love
A Family Favorite
When it comes to family meals, finding a dish that pleases everyone can be a challenge. This Crack Chicken Penne not only meets that challenge but exceeds expectations. It combines the comfort of creamy pasta with the savory goodness of chicken, making it a delightful option for any dinner table. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, it's no wonder families return to this recipe time and time again.
Whether you're serving it on a busy weeknight or at a special family gathering, this dish is sure to impress. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta and chicken, creating a warm embrace of flavors that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it's an easy recipe to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.
Adaptable and Versatile
One of the standout features of this Crack Chicken Penne recipe is its versatility. You can easily modify ingredients to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand. For instance, feel free to swap out the chicken for rotisserie chicken for a quicker option, or even use turkey for a leaner alternative. Vegetarians can replace the chicken with a medley of vegetables for a delicious meat-free version.
Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese or add extra spices for a kick of flavor. The possibilities are endless, making this dish a great canvas for culinary creativity. Whether you want to elevate its taste or adapt it for special diets, this recipe will accommodate your needs while still delivering on flavor.
Easy Meal Prep
In our busy lives, meal prep has become essential for maintaining a balanced diet. This Crack Chicken Penne recipe is perfect for meal prepping, as it stores well and reheats beautifully. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners. Simply store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator, and it will last for several days.
When you're ready to enjoy your meal, just reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore its creamy consistency. This convenience means you can enjoy a homemade meal even on the busiest of days without sacrificing quality or flavor.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
For the Sauce
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup diced green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mix everything together to create a creamy delight.
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken Sauce
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, and green onions. Mix until well combined.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the chicken mixture and stir until the pasta is coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious Crack Chicken Penne!
Storage Tips
To keep your Crack Chicken Penne fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to four days, allowing you to savor the flavors for multiple meals. If you want to extend its shelf life further, consider freezing portions. Just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
When you're ready to enjoy a frozen portion, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Adding a splash of chicken broth or milk during reheating can help restore its creamy texture, ensuring it tastes just as delicious as when it was first made.
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Crack Chicken Penne experience, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. Additionally, you could serve some garlic bread on the side for a comforting touch that complements the meal perfectly.
For a little extra flavor, sprinkle some extra green onions or fresh herbs on top before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the dish. Your family will love the added flair!
Nutritional Information
This Crack Chicken Penne is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The chicken provides a great source of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall health. The addition of cream cheese and cheddar gives a rich flavor while also contributing calcium for strong bones.
While this dish is indulgent, it can be part of a balanced diet when served with a side of vegetables. Consider adding a variety of colorful vegetables to boost the nutritional content, making it a wholesome meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your health goals.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work well with this recipe.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and mix it with the pasta just before serving.
→ How can I make it spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the sauce for a kick!
→ Is there a vegetarian version?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini, and use vegetable broth.
Crack Chicken Penne Families Love
This Crack Chicken Penne is a creamy, flavorful dish that the whole family will enjoy. Packed with tender chicken and rich cheese, it's a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Soulful Supper Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 4 cups chicken broth
For the Sauce
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup diced green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, and green onions. Mix until well combined.
Add the cooked pasta to the chicken mixture and stir until the pasta is coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Total Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 30g