Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy Cheesy Easy Dinner Recipe

Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, this crack chicken penne is one of those meals that brings comfort to your table with very little effort. It combines tender shredded chicken, ranch seasoning, and melted cheese, all wrapped around penne pasta in a luscious cream sauce.

This recipe has quickly become a favorite for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, and even small gatherings. The creamy texture and the herby kick from the ranch blend perfectly with the cheesy goodness in every forkful. If you’re craving an easy chicken pasta that doesn’t skimp on flavor, you’re in the right place.

Ready in around 30 minutes, this meal is ideal when you need something hearty and satisfying that doesn’t keep you tied to the stove. It’s also an excellent way to use up leftover chicken or add a fun twist to your usual pasta rotation.

Whether you’re serving it to your family or saving it for the next day’s lunch, this creamy chicken penne is always a good idea.

Why You’ll Love This Crack Chicken Pasta

• Loaded with creamy, cheesy flavor and perfectly cooked pasta
• Ready in just 30 minutes using simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
• Easily customizable for spice levels, veggies, or different cheeses
• Family-friendly and great for picky eaters
• Makes delicious leftovers for next-day lunches or freezer meals

This recipe keeps things straightforward while delivering a rich and satisfying result that feels like it took way more effort than it actually does. It’s the kind of pasta you’ll come back to again and again.

Crack Chicken Penne Ingredients

To get that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and savory, here’s exactly what you’ll need:

• 12 oz penne pasta – holds the sauce perfectly without getting mushy
• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken – rotisserie, leftover grilled, or poached
• 8 oz cream cheese – softened, for smooth melting
• 1 oz packet of ranch seasoning mix – classic flavor twist
• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese – melts into the sauce for bold flavor
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – adds creamy stretch
• 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup – thickens the sauce with extra depth
• 1 cup chicken broth – loosens the sauce and brings it together
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder – mild kick of flavor
• 1/4 tsp black pepper – enhances the seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing and adding a glossy finish
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley – optional garnish for a pop of color

Everything can be found easily at your local store, and substitutions are simple if you want to tweak the flavor. Just make sure your chicken is fully cooked before adding it to the pan.

How to Make Crack Chicken Penne

Making this dish is as simple as cooking the pasta and stirring everything into one creamy, dreamy sauce. Here’s how to make it step by step:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook 12 oz of penne pasta until al dente, about 9 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil. Stir in the 8 oz of cream cheese and 1 cup chicken broth, whisking until melted and smooth.
3. Add in 1 can of cream of chicken soup, 1 oz ranch seasoning, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Fold in the 2 cups of shredded cooked chicken and let it simmer for 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
5. Add the cooked penne and toss until everything is evenly coated. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar and 1 cup mozzarella until melted.

Finish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Looking for a creamy soup version? Try this Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup as a cozy alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Creamy Chicken Penne

This dish is plenty satisfying on its own, but here are some easy ways to round it out:

• Serve it with a side of warm garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls
• Pair it with a light green salad, like arugula with lemon vinaigrette
• Add steamed broccoli or roasted carrots on the side for some extra veggies
• Plate it in small ramekins for an appetizer-style pasta course
• Top it with a sprinkle of extra cheese or red pepper flakes for a twist

Whether you’re serving a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish brings big flavor and versatility to the table.

Variations & Customization for Crack Chicken Pasta

Want to mix things up? Here are some easy ways to adapt the dish to your taste or dietary needs:

• Swap penne for rotini, rigatoni, or gluten-free pasta
• Use Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a little extra kick
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a veggie boost
• Spice it up with crushed red pepper or hot sauce stirred into the sauce
• Replace the pasta with cooked spaghetti squash or zoodles for a low-carb version

These simple tweaks let you personalize the recipe without changing the creamy foundation that makes it so satisfying.

How to Store and Reheat Crack Chicken Penne

This pasta dish stores beautifully and tastes just as delicious the next day. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• To reheat, place in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce
• Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until heated through
• If freezing, place in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating

Proper storage ensures the sauce stays creamy and the pasta doesn’t get overcooked.

Pro Tips for Creamy Crack Chicken Penne

Want to take your dish to the next level? Keep these tips in mind:

• Always cook the pasta just to al dente. It will soften more when mixed with the sauce
• Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier melting
• Stir the shredded cheese in off the heat to prevent clumping
• Use freshly shredded cheese for the smoothest texture
• If the sauce thickens too much, add more broth or a splash of milk

A few smart tricks make all the difference in creating a creamy, craveable pasta every time.

Mistakes to Avoid When Making Crack Chicken Penne

Avoid these common pitfalls to make sure your pasta turns out perfect every time:

• Overcooking the pasta makes it mushy, especially when reheated
• Using pre-shredded cheese can cause grainy sauce
• Skipping the broth can make the sauce too thick and heavy
• Adding cold cream cheese to a hot pan may cause curdling
• Not tasting the sauce before serving can lead to underseasoned pasta

Following the steps carefully helps guarantee a creamy, flavorful finish every time.

Final Thoughts on Crack Chicken Penne

Crack chicken penne is the perfect balance of cozy and craveable. With just a few everyday ingredients, you get a dinner that feels special without the stress. Whether it’s for a weeknight or a gathering, it’s always a crowd favorite.

If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to pin it and share it with your favorite home cooks.

FAQs About Crack Chicken Penne

What is crack chicken penne made of?

Crack chicken penne combines shredded chicken, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, cheddar, mozzarella, and penne pasta in a creamy, savory sauce.

Can I use penne or rotini in crack chicken pasta?

Yes, both penne and rotini work well. Penne holds the sauce in its tubes, while rotini grabs more sauce with its spirals.

How do I make crack chicken penne in a crockpot?

Add all ingredients except pasta into the slow cooker. Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours. Stir in cooked penne just before serving.

Is crack chicken penne good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It stores well for several days and reheats beautifully with a splash of broth or milk to keep the sauce creamy.

Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy Cheesy Easy Dinner Recipe

Author: Ellie Courses: Dinner