Crac Chicken Penne

There are weeknights when only something fast, comforting, and irresistibly creamy will do. This Crac Chicken Penne brings everything you love about a hearty pasta dinner into one simple, reliable, and flavor-packed dish. It’s bold, it’s comforting, it’s rich without being overwhelming, and best of all, it’s ready in just 35 minutes from start to finish.

This recipe is built on tender, oven-finished chicken breasts seasoned with a blend of pantry spices, paired with penne pasta tossed in a velvety, buttery cream sauce. The ingredients are wonderfully straightforward, yet they come together to create a dish that feels restaurant-worthy. Whether you’re feeding a family, cooking for a cozy date night, or preparing leftovers for the next day, this dish is a dependable staple you’ll return to again and again.

Crac Chicken Penne shines on busy evenings, lazy Sundays, or anytime you crave a satisfying meal with minimal fuss. It delivers warmth, comfort, and a hint of indulgence without requiring hours in the kitchen. This is a meal that works for everyone—from beginners to experienced home cooks.

Let’s dive into the full breakdown, tips, and everything you need to make this creamy chicken pasta your next go-to weeknight special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find and affordable.
• Features a homemade creamy sauce that feels luxurious but is simple to prepare.
• The chicken is seasoned with a flavorful herb-spice mix that adds depth to every bite.
• Beginner-friendly but delicious enough for seasoned home cooks.
• Oven-safe skillet cooking minimizes cleanup and simplifies the process.

Ingredients Breakdown

Below is the complete, exact ingredient list with measurements and components kept exactly as you provided.

Servings: 4 servings

For the Chicken

• 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)

For the Pasta

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or preferred cooking oil)
• 12 oz penne pasta (any pasta shape can be used)

For the Creamy Sauce

• 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

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Oven-safe skillet
• Meat thermometer
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Strainer/colander
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or heat-safe spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

The following steps are written exactly as your provided method outlines—clear, detailed, and free from changes. Each step has been expanded with additional explanation for clarity while keeping every part of the original method intact.

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   Prepare your workstation by gathering all ingredients, measuring seasonings, and setting up your skillet.
2. In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and basil.
   This creates the seasoning blend that brings depth and warmth to the chicken.
3. Rub the spice mixture onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
   Ensure full coverage for balanced flavor.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes until golden brown.
   Searing locks in flavor and promotes a beautiful crust.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F.
   Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and perfect doneness.
6. While the chicken bakes, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
   Drain the pasta and set aside.
7. Let the baked chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
   Resting keeps the chicken juicy and flavor-rich.
8. In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and parsley until thickened.
   This creates the creamy sauce base that gives the dish its signature taste and texture.
9. Toss the cooked penne in the creamy sauce until well coated.
   Ensure each piece of pasta receives an even layer of sauce.
10. Plate the pasta, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan if desired.
    Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Tips & Variations

While the recipe must remain exact, here are optional serving and styling suggestions that do not alter the recipe’s core elements:

Dietary Suggestions

• For gluten-free needs, prepare gluten-free pasta. The sauce and chicken are naturally gluten-free.
• For lighter options, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream as mentioned.
• For herb-forward flavor, increase fresh parsley on top.

Spice Adjustments

• Add a small pinch of crushed red pepper on the finished dish for a subtle heat.
• For milder seasoning, reduce paprika during plating (not in the recipe itself).

Seasonal Substitutions

• During summer, finish with a sprinkle of fresh basil.
• In cooler months, garnish with warm roasted garlic cloves for a richer aroma.

Flavor Enhancements

• Add a spoonful of pasta water when tossing pasta to help emulsify the sauce.
• For smoky depth, use smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

Crac Chicken Penne is creamy, savory, and balanced with herbaceous undertones. The chicken brings a satisfying bite with a warm spice blend, while the pasta provides comfort. The sauce is indulgent yet not too heavy, offering Italian-inspired richness from Parmesan and butter.

Best Side Dishes

• Garlic bread
• Caesar salad
• Steamed vegetables
• Roasted broccoli or asparagus
• Simple mixed greens with lemon dressing

Nutritional Overview (Estimated per Serving)

These values match your provided nutritional details:

• Calories: 450
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 2 g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg
• Sodium: 700 mg
• Potassium: 600 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Vitamin A: 500 IU
• Vitamin C: 3 mg
• Calcium: 200 mg
• Iron: 2 mg

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Cook the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and store it sliced in the refrigerator.
• The sauce is best made fresh, but leftovers can be reheated with a splash of cream.
• Penne pasta can be cooked a day ahead; drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes, the recipe allows for any pasta shape, though penne holds the sauce especially well.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, the ingredient list includes 1x, 2x, and 3x multipliers for scaling.

Can I replace heavy cream?

The recipe notes that half-and-half is an acceptable lighter option.

Do I need an oven-safe skillet?

Yes, because the chicken is seared on the stovetop and then baked in the same pan.

Can I use fresh herbs?

Yes, both oregano and basil note that fresh versions are preferred.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. Its creamy, mild flavor profile is widely appealing.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Task	Time
Prep	10 minutes
Cook	20 minutes
Resting	5 minutes
Total	35 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in wide pasta bowls for better heat retention.
• Add a sprinkle of Parmesan on top for additional richness.
• A simple sprinkle of chopped parsley brightens and balances the cream sauce.
• Pair with a crisp salad to cut the richness of the cream.

Recipe Variations

These variations are optional ideas but do not modify the original recipe:

1. Crac Chicken Penne Alfredo
   Add a touch more Parmesan on top and increase creaminess when plating.
2. Crac Chicken Penne Primavera
   Toss steamed vegetables like peas or broccoli with the finished pasta.
3. Spicy Crac Chicken Penne
   Add crushed red pepper when serving for a gentle heat.
4. Lemon Herb Crac Chicken Penne
   Add a squeeze of lemon on top before serving for freshness.

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken Breast

Lean protein that cooks quickly and holds flavor well.
To select: Choose firm, pink pieces with no discoloration.
To store: Keep refrigerated up to 2 days or freeze up to 6 months.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan enhances texture and flavor.
To select: Choose wedges instead of pre-shredded for best results.
To store: Keep wrapped tightly in parchment and plastic.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Always let chicken rest before slicing to retain moisture.
• Use the same skillet for searing, baking, and sauce-making to maximize flavor.
• Stir the sauce continuously to avoid separating.
• Add pasta immediately after sauce is ready for best coating and texture.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Refrigeration

• Store pasta and chicken together up to 3 days.
• Reheat on low heat with a splash of cream.

Freezing

• Freeze chicken separately up to 2 months.
• Freeze pasta without sauce only for best texture.
• Cream sauce is not recommended for freezing due to separation.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450
Protein	30 g
Carbohydrates	40 g
Fat	20 g
Fiber	3 g
Sodium	700 mg
Calcium	200 mg

Dietary notes: Nut-free, can be gluten-free with GF pasta, suitable for non-vegetarian diets.

Conclusion

Crac Chicken Penne is the perfect example of how a handful of simple ingredients can transform into a satisfying, comforting dinner with big flavor and minimal effort. With its creamy sauce, tender oven-baked chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and enjoy a homemade meal that feels both indulgent and effortless.

Whether you’re preparing it for a busy evening or a relaxing weekend meal, this pasta delivers every time. Give it a try, share it with your loved ones, and keep this recipe in your rotation whenever you need a cozy, dependable dinner.

If you enjoyed this recipe, come back for more delicious, home-style meals made simple.

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