Name: Quick Crack Chicken Penne
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb); 8 oz penne pasta; 2 cloves fresh garlic (minced); 4 oz cream cheese; 1 cup chicken broth; 2 green onions (chopped); 1 cup grated sharp cheddar cheese

The aroma of Quick Crack Chicken Penne wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace that feels like a hug from your favorite aunt. Picture this: tender chicken mingling with creamy sauce and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all while teasing your taste buds with flavors that dance like they’re at a disco party. This dish has the power to turn an ordinary dinner into a celebration, and trust me, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Now, let’s talk about memories. I remember the first time I whipped up this delightful dish for my family. It was one of those chaotic weeknights where everyone’s running around like headless chickens (pun intended). But as soon as I served this creamy pasta, the chaos melted away into satisfied smiles and happy sighs. Quick Crack Chicken Penne is perfect for any occasion—be it a cozy family dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends—and I promise it will leave everyone wanting seconds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This amazing dish combines ease of preparation with a burst of flavor that will wow your taste buds.
The creamy sauce coats the penne beautifully, creating an irresistible visual appeal.
You can customize it based on what you have in your pantry, making it versatile for any meal.
It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet delicious enough to impress guests at dinner parties.

Ingredients for Quick Crack Chicken Penne

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 chicken breasts work best; adjust according to your crowd size.
Penne Pasta: Use whole wheat or regular penne; both hold onto the sauce like a best friend.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; garlic makes everything better!
Cream Cheese: The secret weapon for that creamy goodness; opt for low-fat if you’re feeling adventurous.
Chicken Broth: It adds depth to the sauce; homemade is great but store-bought works just fine too.
Green Onions: These lend freshness and crunch; chop them finely for even distribution.
Cheddar Cheese: Grated cheese brings richness; choose sharp cheddar for extra flavor punch.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Quick Crack Chicken Penne

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces—this allows them to cook evenly and soak up all that glorious sauce.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the penne pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente—about 8-10 minutes should do it.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in the diced chicken and minced garlic, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and no longer pink—about 7-10 minutes.

Step 4: Create the Sauce

Once cooked, lower the heat and add cream cheese to the skillet along with chicken broth. Stir until smooth and creamy; it should look like something you’d want to dive into.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked penne directly into the skillet with the sauce. Stir well so every piece of pasta gets coated in that creamy goodness.

Step 6: Final Touches

Garnish with chopped green onions and grated cheddar cheese right before serving! Transfer to plates and drizzle any leftover sauce over each serving for that perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it—your very own Quick Crack Chicken Penne ready to impress! Serve hot and watch as everyone dives in for more!

You Must Know

This amazing chicken marinade offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create the best Quick Crack Chicken Penne, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While the chicken cooks, prepare your pasta in a separate pot and whip up your sauce. This method saves time and ensures everything is perfectly cooked.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Quick Crack Chicken Penne with different vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Swap out seasonings for a spicy kick or add a sprinkle of cheese on top before serving for extra flavor.

Storing & Reheating

To store your Quick Crack Chicken Penne, keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if necessary to maintain moisture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Use fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten your dish; they add incredible flavor without much effort.
Be careful not to overcook the pasta; al dente is key for texture.
Lastly, let your chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.

When I first made this Quick Crack Chicken Penne, my friends declared it a “life-changing” dish at our dinner party—it was that good! Their clean plates were all the feedback I needed!

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for Quick Crack Chicken Penne?

To make Quick Crack Chicken Penne, you will need penne pasta, boneless chicken breast or thighs, cream cheese, ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, and shredded cheese. You can also add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition. This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

How long does it take to prepare Quick Crack Chicken Penne?

Preparing Quick Crack Chicken Penne takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the chicken pieces and your stove’s efficiency. The quick preparation is one of the best features of this dish, making it a favorite among busy cooks looking for a delicious meal in no time.

Can I customize Quick Crack Chicken Penne with different proteins?

Yes! While the traditional recipe uses chicken, you can easily substitute turkey or beef if desired. Feel free to experiment with different meats based on your preference or dietary needs. Just ensure that the cooking times may vary slightly with different proteins to ensure everything is cooked thoroughly.

Is Quick Crack Chicken Penne suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Quick Crack Chicken Penne is ideal for meal prepping. You can cook a large batch and store servings in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This dish reheats well and maintains its flavor, making it perfect for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion for Quick Crack Chicken Penne:

Quick Crack Chicken Penne is an easy-to-make dish that combines tender chicken with creamy sauce and pasta. Its simplicity allows anyone to whip up a satisfying meal within 30 minutes, ideal for busy evenings. With customizable options and great storage potential, this recipe keeps dinner exciting without compromising on flavor. Enjoy crafting this delightful dish for both family meals and gatherings!