When you need a quick dinner that doesn't sacrifice flavor, Crac Chicken Penne is an irresistible choice. This creamy, comforting dish blends tender chicken with penne pasta drenched in a rich sauce you'll want to savor every time you make it.
You’re going to love how fast it comes together and how satisfying it is. The Crac Chicken Penne recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you crave a hearty meal without a long wait.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes for busy weeknights
- Creamy sauce with rich, comforting flavors
- Uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies
- Feeds 4 people, perfect for small families or leftovers
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Crac Chicken Penne come to life. Everything you need is straightforward and pantry-friendly.
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Total Time: 28 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
How to Make Crac Chicken Penne: An Irresistibly Creamy Quick Dinner
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, about 10-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked chicken and drained penne pasta back into the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce coats everything evenly. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy Crac Chicken Penne!
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente gives the best texture and holds the sauce well.
- Use fresh garlic and Parmesan for the richest flavor in the sauce.
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Feel free to add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer gently to avoid curdling the cream.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Crac Chicken Penne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce as needed.
For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as described.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works perfectly, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even farfalle. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, swap the heavy cream and Parmesan for coconut cream and nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese alternative to keep the creamy texture without dairy.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce components ahead, but it’s best to combine and heat with pasta just before serving to maintain the texture and freshness.
What sides pair well with Crac Chicken Penne?
A simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement this creamy pasta beautifully for a balanced meal.