There’s nothing quite like the tantalizing aroma of spices swirling in the kitchen to spark excitement for dinner. That’s exactly what happened when I first whipped up this Crac Chicken Penne. Picture your favorite pasta coated in a creamy sauce, with a satisfying kick from Cajun seasoning and juicy chicken on top. In under 30 minutes, you can transform a simple weeknight meal into a flavorful culinary adventure that will have everyone asking for seconds.
After a hectic day, I often crave something both delicious and easy to prepare—this dish checks all the boxes! Why settle for another boring fast-food run when you can whip up a delightful dinner that feels like a warm hug? With just a handful of pantry staples and minimal prep, you’ll have a gorgeous plate of creamy, spicy goodness on the table in no time. Let’s dive into this irresistible Crac Chicken Penne recipe that’s destined to become a household favorite!
Why is Crac Chicken Penne a Must-Try?
Flavorful and Spicy: The bold Cajun seasoning elevates your cooking game with a zesty kick.
Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Creamy Indulgence: The rich, velvety sauce hugs each piece of penne, making every bite a treat.
Versatile Options: Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or add veggies for a personal twist.
Family-Friendly: This dish delights both the young and the young at heart, ensuring happy eaters around the table.
For more delicious ideas, check out my other quick dinner recipes.
Crac Chicken Penne Ingredients
Get ready for a creamy, spicy dish that will impress your family!
For the Chicken
- Chicken Breast – A lean protein that cooks quickly, making it perfect for your Crac Chicken Penne.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential for basic seasoning; adjust these to suit your taste.
- Garlic Powder – Offers a wonderful savoriness; feel free to use fresh garlic for a bolder flavor.
- Onion Powder – Adds a touch of sweetness and depth; a lovely complement to garlic.
- Paprika – Not just for color, it introduces a mild heat that’s oh-so-delicious!
- Dried Oregano & Basil – These herbs add warmth and aroma; using fresh can elevate the dish even more.
For the Pasta
- Olive Oil – Ideal for searing chicken; it can be swapped for any preferred cooking oil.
- Penne Pasta – The star of the dish; it holds the creamy sauce beautifully; feel free to use any pasta shape you like!
For the Creamy Sauce
- Butter – This adds richness to your sauce; unsalted is best for better control over the flavors.
- Heavy Cream – The key to that luscious, creamy sauce; half-and-half or whole milk can lighten it up.
- Parmesan Cheese – The finishing touch that adds a sharp and cheesy flavor; freshly grated works wonders!
- Fresh Parsley – A bright garnish that not only beautifies but adds a pop of freshness.
How to Make Crac Chicken Penne
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for the chicken once it’s seared.
- Mix the Spices: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and basil. This spicy blend will give the chicken an irresistible flavor!
- Season the Chicken: Rub the spice mixture onto both sides of your boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This ensures that every bite bursts with flavor!
- Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high. Add the seasoned chicken, searing for about 3-4 minutes until it’s golden brown on both sides.
- Bake the Chicken: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is completely cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Cook the Penne: While the chicken bakes, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Rest and Slice: Allow the baked chicken to rest for a few minutes, then slice it into strips. This helps keep it juicy!
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and parsley until the sauce thickens beautifully.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Toss the cooked penne in the creamy sauce, letting it be well coated in that rich, flavorful goodness.
- Serve and Garnish: Plate the pasta and top with sliced chicken. Optionally, sprinkle additional parsley and Parmesan for a lovely finish!
Optional: Serve with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crac Chicken Penne are fantastic for meal prep and can save you valuable time on busy weeknights! You can season and sear the chicken up to 24 hours in advance; simply store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake. Additionally, cook the penne pasta and prepare the creamy sauce ahead of time, refrigerating each component separately for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, just bake the chicken at 375°F for 20-25 minutes to heat through, then toss the pasta with the cream sauce and top with the sliced chicken. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, homemade meal with minimal effort!
Crac Chicken Penne Variations
There’s no limit to how you can customize this delicious recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs.
- Shrimp Swap: Replace chicken with shrimp for a colorful seafood twist, cooking them until just pink and tender.
- Veggie-Packed: Add seasonal vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra color and nutrients, sautéing them before mixing with the pasta.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular penne with gluten-free pasta for a delicious alternative that everyone can enjoy.
- Spicy Kick: Amp up the heat by adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for those who crave a spicier dish.
- Creamy Dream: For an even richer sauce, melt in some cream cheese or mascarpone along with the heavy cream for added creaminess.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or chives in addition to the parsley for a fragrant finish that brightens the dish.
- Cheese Variety: Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or add a mix of your favorite cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.
- Cajun Twist: Give it an extra touch of flavor by swapping in a homemade Cajun spice blend to elevate the original seasoning.
What to Serve with Crac Chicken Penne?
Imagine a spread that complements the creamy, spicy delight of your Crac Chicken Penne, making for a truly memorable meal.
- Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment for sopping up that luscious sauce, this warm, buttery bread adds a comforting crunch.
- Fresh Side Salad: Crisp lettuce and vibrant veggies bring a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the pasta. Add a tangy vinaigrette for an extra zing.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasting caramelizes the natural sugars in seasonal vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini, providing a delightful sweetness that contrasts beautifully with the dish.
- Cajun Coleslaw: This zesty slaw adds a crunchy, spicy twist, enhancing the flavor profile and adding a fun texture contrast.
- Sparkling Water: Pair your meal with a refreshing glass of sparkling water. Its effervescence cleanses the palate between bites, keeping the dining experience light.
- Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, indulge in rich chocolate mousse. Its airy texture and bittersweet flavors create a delightful finish after the creamy penne.
- White Wine: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the meal by complementing the creamy sauce and spicy chicken with its crisp notes.
Bringing all these elements together creates a feast that invites warmth and joy to your dining table!
Storage Tips for Crac Chicken Penne
- Fridge: Store leftover Crac Chicken Penne in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
- Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label them with the date!
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth for a smoother sauce consistency.
- Room Temperature: Avoid leaving cooked pasta at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent any food safety issues.
Expert Tips for Crac Chicken Penne
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh oregano and basil enhance the flavor remarkably. If unavailable, dried is still effective, but fresh is preferred.
- Check Chicken Temperature: Always ensure your chicken reaches 165°F for safety. A meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking.
- Creamy Sauce Consistency: Gradually add the heavy cream to the melted butter; this prevents curdling, ensuring a silky smooth sauce for your Crac Chicken Penne.
- Avoid Overcooking Pasta: Cook penne just until al dente for the best texture. Remember, it will continue to cook slightly when tossed in the sauce!
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like bell peppers or spinach; they add nutrition and colorful variety to your creamy pasta.
Crac Chicken Penne Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For this Crac Chicken Penne, opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure quick cooking and tenderness. Fresh chicken should be pale in color, with no discoloration or dark spots. If choosing frozen chicken, ensure it’s fully thawed for an even cook; otherwise, the center may remain raw while the outside overcooks.
What is the best way to store leftover Crac Chicken Penne?
I recommend refrigerating any leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. It’s important to let it cool slightly before sealing it up to avoid condensation, which can affect quality.
Can I freeze Crac Chicken Penne for later?
Very! For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. Be sure to label them with the date. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it out. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results before reheating gently.
Why is my creamy sauce too thick or curdled?
If your sauce is thick, it may need a splash of pasta cooking water to loosen it up; just stir in a little at a time until you reach the desired consistency. To prevent curdling when adding heavy cream, slowly incorporate it into the melted butter over low heat, stirring continuously. This allows for a smoother, creamier texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for Crac Chicken Penne?
Of course! For dairy-free options, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy milk like almond or soy milk, but be aware that it may not thicken as richly. If preparing this dish for someone with allergies, always check the labels on cream and cheese. Additionally, if cooking for pets, keep seasoned chicken separate, as spices can be harmful to them.
What can I substitute for penne pasta?
The more the merrier! Feel free to swap penne with rigatoni, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just make sure to adjust cooking times according to the type of pasta you choose to ensure it reaches that perfect al dente texture!
Crac Chicken Penne: A Quick, Creamy Dinner Adventure
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and basil.
- Rub the spice mixture onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F.
- While the chicken bakes, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Let the baked chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and parsley until thickened.
- Toss the cooked penne in the creamy sauce until well coated.
- Plate the pasta, top with sliced chicken, and garnish with additional parsley and Parmesan if desired.