Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy Ranch Pasta with Turkey & Cheddar
Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy Ranch Pasta with Turkey & Cheddar
This creamy crack chicken penne is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in just one pot! With tender chicken, rich cream cheese, zesty ranch seasoning, and melted cheddar, this dish delivers incredible flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something satisfying and delicious on the table fast.
What makes this recipe so special is how the creamy sauce clings to every piece of penne pasta, creating a rich and comforting meal that’s both family-friendly and impressive enough for guests. If you love creamy pasta dishes, you’ll also enjoy our Cowboy Butter Chicken Pasta or this Creamy Chicken Penne recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, cubed
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 4 oz turkey ham, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
In the same pot, add diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the penne pasta, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
Stir in the ranch seasoning and black pepper. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
Reduce heat to low and add the cooked chicken back to the pot along with diced turkey ham. Stir in cream cheese and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
Garnish with fresh parsley and additional shredded cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
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 into the sauce without clumping. If you’re looking for more cheesy pasta inspiration, try our Monterey Chicken Spaghetti for another family favorite.
You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic at the beginning. For a different flavor profile, check out this Cajun Chicken Spaghetti recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! This recipe works well with most short pasta shapes like rotini, fusilli, or farfalle. Just adjust cooking time according to package directions.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This pasta is best served immediately, but you can prep the ingredients ahead to make cooking faster. For make-ahead meals, consider our Creamy Pesto Chicken Pasta Bake which reheats beautifully.
Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy Ranch Pasta with Turkey & Cheddar
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add diced onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the penne pasta, chicken broth, and milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Stir in the ranch seasoning and black pepper. Cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low and add the cooked chicken back to the pot along with diced turkey ham. Stir in cream cheese and cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional shredded cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
