Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy Turkey Ham Cheddar Pasta for Quick Weeknight Dinners
Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy Turkey Ham Cheddar Pasta for Quick Weeknight Dinners
Looking for a comforting pasta dish that comes together in minutes? This creamy chicken penne with ranch flavors and savory turkey ham is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need something delicious on the table fast, this one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich cream cheese sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.
I first discovered this recipe during a busy season when I needed quick dinner solutions that still felt special. The combination of creamy sauce, protein-packed chicken, and the satisfying texture of penne pasta makes this dish a family favorite that’s both comforting and convenient. If you enjoy creamy pasta dishes, you’ll love our Marry Me Chicken Pasta with its sun-dried tomato parmesan sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup diced turkey ham
- 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup milk or heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a boil. Stir in the penne pasta and reduce heat to medium. Cook pasta according to package directions, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: While pasta cooks, add the diced turkey ham to the skillet and stir to combine. Once pasta is al dente, reduce heat to low.
Step 5: Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and milk. Stir continuously until cream cheese melts and creates a smooth sauce.
Step 6: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. The creamy sauce pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or garlic bread.
Expert Tips
Make it Creamier: For an extra rich sauce, use heavy cream instead of milk and add an additional 2 ounces of cream cheese.
Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
Customize the Protein: While chicken works wonderfully, you can also use ground beef or turkey for variation. The key is ensuring your protein is fully cooked before adding to the sauce.
If you’re looking for other comforting dinner options, our Crispy Parmesan Chicken offers another delicious way to enjoy chicken with creamy sauces.
FAQ
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the recipe as directed, then store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk to refresh the creaminess.
What can I use instead of turkey ham?
You can substitute with cooked beef sausage or simply omit it for a vegetarian version with extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Cream-based pasta dishes don’t freeze well as the sauce can separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
What sides go well with this pasta?
This creamy pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. For party occasions, consider serving it alongside our Buffalo Chicken Dip for a complete spread.
This creamy crack chicken penne is the perfect solution for those nights when you want something comforting and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, savory turkey ham, and rich cream cheese sauce creates a dish that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly.
Crack Chicken Penne – Creamy Turkey Ham Cheddar Pasta for Quick Weeknight Dinners
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth to the skillet and bring to a boil. Stir in the penne pasta and reduce heat to medium. Cook pasta according to package directions, stirring occasionally.
- While pasta cooks, add the diced turkey ham to the skillet and stir to combine. Once pasta is al dente, reduce heat to low.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet along with cream cheese, ranch seasoning, and milk. Stir continuously until cream cheese melts and creates a smooth sauce.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
