Cheesy & Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes

Cheesy & Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes 🍝🧀🔥

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting pasta dish that combines the irresistible flavors of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and savory spices, then this Crack Chicken inspired recipe is your perfect solution. Combining convenience with bold flavor, this last-minute dinner packs a punch in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a quick weekend treat. Dive into this flavor explosion chicken dish, and you’ll understand why everyone keeps coming back for more.

2. Ingredients Needed for Cheesy & Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rotini work great)
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (preferably leftover or rotisserie)
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Crack Chicken Pasta

Preparing the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. For a helpful tip, check out this quick one-pan pasta recipe for more ideas on efficient pasta preparation.

Cooking the Chicken and Flavor Base

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor. For juicy chicken tips, explore these tender chicken tips.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and add cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and smooth. Pour in chicken broth and stir well. Then, gradually add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until the sauce is silky and creamy. This step creates a delicious, cheesy coating that makes this crack chicken-inspired dish irresistible.

Combining Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly with the creamy sauce. Let everything simmer together for a few minutes to allow flavors to meld. For more cooking inspiration and kitchen tools, visit our breakfast potatoes recipe.

Finishing Touches and Serving

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or garlic bread.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Crack Chicken Pasta

Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short bursts or warm on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to loosen the sauce. For storage solutions, consider the JoyJolt Food Storage Set.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Experience

• Serve topped with extra shredded cheese and fresh herbs for added flavor.
• Pair this creamy pasta with roasted vegetables from healthy roasted peaches and BBQ chicken for a colorful and nutritious meal.
• Complement with a chilled glass of your favorite white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Crack Chicken Pasta

Can I use cooked chicken breasts or thighs?

Absolutely. Pre-cooked chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly. Simply shred or dice the cooked meat and add it during the sauce-making process.

Is this dish suitable for low-carb diets?

While traditional pasta is high in carbs, you can substitute with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to make a low-carb version.

How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

This flavorful crack chicken-inspired pasta comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for quick dinner plans.

Can I make this dish healthier?

Use reduced-fat cheeses and whole wheat pasta, or add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures even cooking and easy cleanup, making pasta preparation a breeze.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Perfect for prepping vegetables or shredding cooked chicken efficiently.
• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – For cool beverages to accompany this rich and cheesy pasta dish.

8. Additional Tips to Make This Recipe Even Better

• Adjust cheese quantities to suit your taste — add more for extra gooeyness or less for a lighter dish.
• Mix in cooked bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
• Not a fan of super spicy? Omit smoked paprika or replace with sweet paprika for a milder flavor.

9. Conclusion

In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this cheesy and creamy crack chicken pasta that’s guaranteed to satisfy all cravings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, it combines tender chicken with a luscious sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. Don’t forget to try different variations and add your favorite ingredients for a personalized twist. Enjoy the irresistible taste of this flavor explosion chicken and share it with family and friends for a delightful dining experience!

Cheesy & Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes

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Discover the irresistible taste of Cheesy & Creamy Crack Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes, a quick and flavorful meal combining tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and savory spices. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy-to-make pasta recipe offers a rich, cheesy sauce with a hint of smoky paprika, ensuring a comforting dining experience in just half an hour.

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne or rotini work great)
• 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (preferably leftover or rotisserie)
• 1 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds smoky flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add shredded chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes to heat through. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Reduce heat to low and add cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and smooth. Pour in chicken broth and stir well. Gradually add shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously until the sauce is silky and creamy.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly with the creamy sauce. Let simmer for a few minutes to meld flavors.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately, pairing with salads or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Notes

• For extra flavor, top with additional shredded cheese and fresh herbs.
• Storage: Cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in microwave or on stovetop, adding chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
• Customize with cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or vegetables like spinach for added variety.

• Author: Serena Miller
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Main Dish

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 620 kcal Kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 820 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 55 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg