Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta with Cheddar
Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta with Cheddar
This irresistible crack chicken penne is the ultimate comfort food pasta that comes together in just one pot! Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor from ranch seasoning and tender chicken, this dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something quick, satisfying, and absolutely delicious.
What makes this recipe so special is how the cream cheese melts into a luxurious sauce that coats every piece of penne pasta, while the ranch seasoning adds that signature tangy flavor that keeps everyone coming back for more. Pair this creamy chicken pasta with a simple side salad like our refreshing feta mint strawberry salad for a complete meal that satisfies every craving.
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add cubed chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
Add the penne pasta to the skillet along with chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
Reduce heat to low and add the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely into a creamy sauce.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs wonderfully with garlic parmesan roasted green beans for a complete dinner experience.
Expert Tips
For the creamiest results, make sure your cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to the pasta. This helps it melt smoothly without clumping.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the pasta sit for 5 minutes after cooking – it will continue to absorb liquid and thicken up beautifully.
For extra flavor, try adding some sautéed mushrooms along with the onions at the beginning of cooking.
Leftovers reheat beautifully – just add a splash of milk when reheating to restore the creamy consistency.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! While penne works great because the ridges hold the sauce well, you can use any short pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle.
How long does this keep in the refrigerator?
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a little milk to refresh the creaminess.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead. Cube the chicken, dice the vegetables, and measure out the dry ingredients to make weeknight cooking even faster.
For another fantastic creamy pasta option, try our irresistible creamy rotisserie chicken pasta that’s equally delicious and convenient!
Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta with Cheddar
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add cubed chicken to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add the penne pasta to the skillet along with chicken broth and milk. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low and add the softened cream cheese and ranch seasoning. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely into a creamy sauce.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
