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Crack Chicken Penne: The Ultimate Creamy Comfort Food

This creamy crack chicken penne combines tender chicken, savory turkey, and ranch seasoning in a one-pot pasta dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, it features a magical combination of cream cheese and cheddar cheese that makes it truly addictive.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 520
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 8 oz turkey strips, chopped
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and turkey, cooking until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Add the uncooked penne pasta to the skillet along with chicken broth, milk, and ranch seasoning. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente.
  4. Return the cooked chicken and turkey to the skillet. Add the softened cream cheese and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

Make sure cream cheese is at room temperature before adding it to blend smoothly without clumping. Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms during last few minutes of cooking for variation.