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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. It's a one-pot pasta dish that combines creamy textures and bold flavors, making it a perfect quick weeknight dinner for the family.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 450
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

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

Method
 

Instructions
  1. 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. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until onions are translucent and fragrant.
  3. 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. 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. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

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.