Ever had a dish that’s both comforting and quick enough for a weeknight win?
Crac Chicken Penne is here to steal the show! This one-pan wonder whips up a creamy delight that’ll make your taste buds dance. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s no wonder this recipe has gone viral. Grab a fork and get ready for a dinner adventure that’s as easy as it is delicious!
Why make this recipe
Why do you need to add Crac Chicken Penne to your dinner rotation?
- Easy cleanup: One pan means fewer dishes, which is perfect for those “don’t feel like washing up” nights!
- Family-friendly: Everyone from picky eaters to foodies will adore it. It’s a universal crowd-pleaser, and who doesn’t love that?
- Wholesome and satisfying: The blend of creamy sauce and tender chicken will have you wishing for seconds, and maybe even thirds (don’t worry, I won’t tell!).
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!
- 2 pieces Chicken Breast (Boneless and skinless)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (or fresh garlic for bolder flavor)
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (fresh preferred)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Basil (fresh preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (or preferred cooking oil)
- 12 oz Penne Pasta (any pasta shape can be used)
- 2 tablespoons Butter (unsalted preferred)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated is preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
Directions
Preparation Steps
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and basil.
- Cook the chicken: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove and let rest.
- Cook the pasta: Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. (Pro tip: reserve some pasta water for next step!).
- Make the sauce: In the same pan, melt butter, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until creamy and well combined.
- Combine it all: Dice the chicken and return to the pan, along with the drained pasta. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if necessary for a creamy texture.
- Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and enjoy!
How to make Crac Chicken Penne: A Quick, Creamy Dinner Adventure (Overview)
Let’s talk about how easy it is to pull this together. Start by seasoning your chicken and searing it until golden brown. While it rests, you can boil up your penne pasta. Toss some butter and cream in the same pan, and stir in generous amounts of Parmesan for that dreamy sauce. Finally, mix in your pasta and diced chicken. It’s a whirlwind of flavors, and you can’t help but feel like a culinary genius. Pro tip: Always save a splash of pasta water—it’s the secret weapon for a silky sauce!
How to serve Crac Chicken Penne: A Quick, Creamy Dinner Adventure
Serve this dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for that pop of color. Picture a creamy bowl filled with golden pasta, dotted with tender chicken, and smelling like a hug from the inside. Pair it with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread for an added crunch. Trust me, your kitchen will smell like a gourmet restaurant!
How to store Crac Chicken Penne: A Quick, Creamy Dinner Adventure
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Store your Crac Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes pretty well for about 2-3 months—just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy again, give it a quick zap in the microwave or reheat gently on the stove (add a splash of cream for that fresh taste!).
Tips to make Crac Chicken Penne: A Quick, Creamy Dinner Adventure
- Don’t skip the resting period for the chicken; it helps keep juices locked in!
- Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes for an extra health kick.
- Go gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta for a wholesome alternative.
- Use fresh herbs if you can—there’s nothing like the flavor of fresh basil or oregano. It’s a game-changer! 🌱
Variation
Want to mix things up? Try adding sundried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist or make it a vegan option by swapping chicken for chickpeas and cream for coconut milk. You can even experiment with different pasta shapes—who says it has to be penne?
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Absolutely! Just ensure it’s thawed before cooking for even results.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the ingredients and cook just before serving for a fresher taste.
How can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce while sautéing the chicken for a fiery kick! 🔥
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Crac Chicken Penne
Ingredients
Method
- Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and basil.
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown (about 6-7 minutes per side). Remove and let rest.
- Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. (Pro tip: reserve some pasta water for the next step!).
- In the same pan, melt butter, then add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until creamy and well combined.
- Dice the chicken and return to the pan, along with the drained pasta. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if necessary for a creamy texture.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and enjoy!