Description
Crack Chicken Penne is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re curled up on the couch during a chilly evening or hosting a casual dinner with friends, this dish is guaranteed to be the highlight of the night. The creamy, cheesy sauce coats every bite of penne pasta, while tender chicken brings a hearty, comforting vibe that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
This recipe has a special way of blending indulgent flavors with everyday ingredients, making it a go-to meal when you’re craving something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. The best part? It’s a one-pot wonder—meaning fewer dishes to clean, so you can spend more time enjoying your evening.
Growing up, this was the kind of meal my mom made on busy weeknights to bring the family together around the table. It’s become one of my own comfort-food classics, and I’m so excited to share it with you!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breasts or thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 (8-ounce) block of cream cheese, softened
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 1 cup turkey ham, diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Sauté the Chicken:
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced chicken to the pot and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sear the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
2. Add the Broth and Pasta:
In the same pot, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Stir in the uncooked penne pasta, ensuring it’s fully submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Once the pasta is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed, add the softened cream cheese to the pot. Stir until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.
4. Stir in the Cheddar Cheese:
Lower the heat and sprinkle in the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until it’s fully melted and incorporated into the sauce, creating that luxurious, cheesy texture.
5. Bring It All Together:
Add the cooked chicken, diced turkey ham, Greek yogurt (or sour cream), and frozen peas to the pot. Stir until everything is well combined and heated through. The peas add a subtle sweetness and a pop of color that makes the dish feel fresh.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, herby finish. Serve immediately while the sauce is creamy and hot!
Notes
- If you plan to reheat leftovers, add a splash of milk or chicken broth before reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.