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Crack Chicken Penne - Ultimate Creamy Chicken Penne Recipe with Ranch & Cheddar

This crack chicken penne recipe transforms simple ingredients into a spectacular family meal that's ready in just 30 minutes. The combination of tender chicken, ranch seasoning, and melty cheddar creates a flavor explosion that's irresistibly addictive.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
  3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the penne pasta and ranch seasoning mix. Stir well to combine.
  4. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is cooked al dente.
  5. Reduce heat to low and add the softened cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely into the sauce.
  6. Stir in the milk and shredded cheddar cheese until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
  7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.

Notes

Cook pasta just until al dente as it will continue to absorb sauce. For thinner sauce, add more milk or broth. Reheats well - add splash of milk when reheating.