Crack Chicken Penne: Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta with Turkey
Crack Chicken Penne: Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta with Turkey
This creamy crack chicken penne is the ultimate comfort food that comes together in just 30 minutes! With tender chicken breast, savory turkey ham, and a rich cream cheese sauce infused with ranch seasoning, this one-pot pasta dish is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It’s the perfect quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet comes together with minimal effort.
What makes this recipe so addictive is the combination of creamy textures and bold flavors. The ranch seasoning adds that signature tangy kick, while the cream cheese creates a silky sauce that coats every piece of pasta perfectly. For more creamy pasta inspiration, check out our Ultimate Creamy Tuscan Salmon Pasta.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 8 oz turkey ham, diced
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the protein: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Add diced turkey ham and cook for another 2 minutes.
2. Sauté aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions are translucent and fragrant.
3. Add pasta and liquids: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
4. Create creamy sauce: Reduce heat to low. Add softened cream cheese and milk, stirring continuously until the cream cheese melts into the sauce. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Final touches: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
For another fantastic one-pot pasta option, try our Ultimate Creamy Cajun Chicken Spaghetti.
Expert Tips
For perfect texture: Don’t overcook the pasta! The residual heat will continue cooking it even after you remove it from the stove. The pasta should be al dente when you turn off the heat.
Creamy sauce secrets: Make sure your cream cheese is properly softened before adding it to the hot pasta. This prevents lumps and ensures a smooth, velvety sauce.
Customization ideas: Add vegetables like broccoli florets or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking. You can also substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
If you’re looking for more comforting pasta dishes, our Ultimate Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta is another family favorite.
FAQ
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! This dish reheats beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to refresh the creamy texture.
Can I use different pasta shapes?
Absolutely! Rigatoni, fusilli, or bow tie pasta all work wonderfully with this creamy sauce. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta package directions.
How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the ranch seasoning, or stir in some diced jalapeños when you add the onion and garlic.
For more easy dinner ideas that the whole family will love, check out our Easy Chicken Parmesan Casserole.
Crack Chicken Penne: Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta with Turkey
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Add diced turkey ham and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Simmer for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
- Reduce heat to low. Add softened cream cheese and milk, stirring continuously until the cream cheese melts into the sauce. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
