Crack Chicken Penne
A creamy, comforting, and quick dish featuring tender shredded chicken, tangy ranch flavor, melty cheese, and pasta all in one pot.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta Whole-grain penne can be used for a healthier option.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and shredded Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix A flavor anchor in this recipe.
- 1 cup cream cheese, cubed Swap for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Mild cheddar can be substituted.
- 1 cup chicken broth Add more to thin the sauce if needed.
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped For garnish.
- Salt and pepper to taste Adjust for flavor.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In a large pot, combine the cooked chicken, ranch seasoning, cream cheese, chicken broth, and cheddar cheese over medium heat.
- Stir until the cream cheese starts to melt, approximately 4-6 minutes.
- If the sauce seems thick, add a splash more broth and continue stirring.
- Once the cheeses are melted and the mixture is creamy, add the cooked penne pasta and toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped green onions.
Notes
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth to revive creaminess. Leftovers can be frozen for up to 3 months.