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Crack Chicken Penne Creamy and Delightful Dish

by on September 22, 2025

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If you’re on the hunt for a creamy, flavorful meal that your whole family will love, look no further! My Crack Chicken Penne is not just a dish; it’s a delightful experience packed with tender chicken and rich cheese. With simple ingredients like penne pasta and ranch seasoning, you can whip this up in no time. Let’s dive into the recipe and make your next dinner unforgettable!

- 12 oz penne pasta - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth - 1 packet ranch seasoning mix - 1 cup frozen peas, thawed - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and black pepper to taste - Fresh parsley for garnish Using fresh ingredients is key for great taste. Fresh items have more flavor and nutrients. They also keep the dish vibrant. When you pick fresh food, your meal shines. Opting for low-sodium options helps in many ways. It reduces salt intake, making meals healthier. Low-sodium broth still gives good flavor without the extra salt. You can enjoy your dish with less worry about health impacts. {{ingredient_image_2}} Bringing water to a boil Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Place the pot on the stove and turn the heat to high. Wait for the water to come to a full boil. Cooking penne to al dente Once the water boils, add 12 oz of penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it to be al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. After cooking, drain the pasta, but save a splash of the pasta water just in case. Heating olive oil and adding shredded chicken In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add 2 cups of shredded chicken. Stir it well to coat the chicken in the oil. Adding garlic powder and ranch seasoning Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix. Stir everything together for about 2-3 minutes until it smells amazing. Pouring in chicken broth and simmering Now, slowly pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together. Mixing in cream cheese and cheddar cheese Reduce the heat to low and add 8 oz of softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts into the broth. Then, mix in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely. Folding in the cooked pasta Take the drained pasta and gently fold it into the chicken and cheese mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Adjusting seasoning and garnishing Finally, taste the dish and add salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. Cook on low heat for another 2-3 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your Crack Chicken Penne! How to achieve the perfect al dente pasta To get the best penne, start with a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil, then add the pasta. Cook it for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often. Taste a piece before draining. It should be firm but not hard. Ensuring the sauce is creamy and well-combined To keep your sauce smooth, add cream cheese when the heat is low. Stir it in slowly until it melts. If it seems thick, use a splash of reserved pasta water. This helps mix everything well. Suggested spices to elevate taste Ranch seasoning adds a nice kick. For more depth, try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of paprika. These spices boost the flavor without overpowering the dish. Using fresh herbs for added flavor Fresh parsley is a great addition. It adds color and flavor. You could also try chives or basil for a different taste. Add them at the end to keep their freshness. Creative serving ideas Serve the Crack Chicken Penne in a large, shallow bowl. This gives it a nice look. Sprinkle some extra cheddar on top. Add a bit of fresh parsley for color. Pairing suggestions for a complete meal Pair this dish with crusty bread. It soaks up the creamy sauce and adds texture. A side salad with greens and a light dressing balances the meal nicely. Pro Tips Perfect Pasta: For the best texture, cook the penne pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, for a unique flavor profile. Seasoning Savvy: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning to your liking. A squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the overall flavor. Meal Prep Magic: This dish can be made in advance and reheated for quick lunches or dinners. Just add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to restore creaminess. {{image_4}} You can make Crack Chicken Penne a bit healthier. Start by using whole wheat penne. Whole wheat adds fiber and a nutty taste. You can also add more vegetables. Spinach or bell peppers work well. These veggies boost nutrition and add color to the dish. Want to change the flavor? Swap ranch seasoning for other spice blends. Taco seasoning or Italian herbs can give it a new twist. You can also mix in different cheeses. Try pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a milder taste. Each cheese changes the dish's creaminess and flavor. If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free penne. Many brands offer great pasta that cooks well. For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken. You can add chickpeas or mushrooms for protein. These options keep the dish hearty and satisfying. To keep your Crack Chicken Penne fresh, start by placing it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the dish. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. This way, you can enjoy it later without losing taste. When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat with care. The best way is to use the stovetop. Just place it in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if it looks dry. Stir often to keep it creamy. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid hot spots. This helps retain that creamy, delightful flavor. Crack Chicken is a creamy dish that gets its name from its rich, addictive flavor. It combines tender chicken, ranch seasoning, and creamy cheese. The blend of spices and flavors makes it hard to resist. The “crack” flavor profile comes from the ranch mix and creamy cheeses. Together, they create a savory taste that many love. Yes, you can use raw chicken in this recipe. If you choose raw chicken, cook it in the skillet first. Heat the olive oil and add the chicken before adding any spices. Cook it until it's no longer pink, about 10-12 minutes. Then, you can add the garlic powder and ranch seasoning. This method gives the dish a fresh, juicy taste. Absolutely! Kids usually love creamy pasta dishes. To make it even more appealing, you can add fun shapes of pasta. You could also let kids help mix in the peas or sprinkle cheese on top. This makes it a fun cooking experience for them. Plus, the flavors are mild, so they will likely enjoy it. To add some heat, you can include crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Mix these in with the olive oil and chicken. If you want more spice, try using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. Adding jalapeños or diced green chilies can also spice things up. Adjust the heat to your liking, and enjoy the kick! This recipe shines with wholesome ingredients like penne pasta and tender chicken. Using cream cheese and sharp cheddar brings creamy richness, while ranch seasoning adds a fun twist. I emphasized fresh and low-sodium options for better taste and health. Whether you customize it or follow this guide, enjoy your creamy pasta delight. These tips make it easy to serve and store leftovers too. Your meal can be as simple or exciting as you choose. Happy cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Comfort Food: The creamy sauce and tender chicken create a comforting dish that everyone will love.
  3. Customizable: You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste, such as adding more veggies or using different cheeses.
  4. Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a great option for family dinners.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 12 oz penne pasta

– 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded

– 8 oz cream cheese, softened

– 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

– 1 packet ranch seasoning mix

– 1 cup frozen peas, thawed

– 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley for garnish

Key Ingredient Insights

Using fresh ingredients is key for great taste. Fresh items have more flavor and nutrients. They also keep the dish vibrant. When you pick fresh food, your meal shines.

Opting for low-sodium options helps in many ways. It reduces salt intake, making meals healthier. Low-sodium broth still gives good flavor without the extra salt. You can enjoy your dish with less worry about health impacts.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Bringing water to a boil

Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Place the pot on the stove and turn the heat to high. Wait for the water to come to a full boil.

Cooking penne to al dente

Once the water boils, add 12 oz of penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it to be al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. After cooking, drain the pasta, but save a splash of the pasta water just in case.

Preparing the Chicken Mixture

Heating olive oil and adding shredded chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add 2 cups of shredded chicken. Stir it well to coat the chicken in the oil.

Adding garlic powder and ranch seasoning

Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix. Stir everything together for about 2-3 minutes until it smells amazing.

Making the Creamy Sauce

Pouring in chicken broth and simmering

Now, slowly pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together.

Mixing in cream cheese and cheddar cheese

Reduce the heat to low and add 8 oz of softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts into the broth. Then, mix in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely.

Combining Ingredients

Folding in the cooked pasta

Take the drained pasta and gently fold it into the chicken and cheese mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.

Adjusting seasoning and garnishing

Finally, taste the dish and add salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. Cook on low heat for another 2-3 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your Crack Chicken Penne!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Advice

How to achieve the perfect al dente pasta

To get the best penne, start with a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil, then add the pasta. Cook it for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often. Taste a piece before draining. It should be firm but not hard.

Ensuring the sauce is creamy and well-combined

To keep your sauce smooth, add cream cheese when the heat is low. Stir it in slowly until it melts. If it seems thick, use a splash of reserved pasta water. This helps mix everything well.

Flavor Enhancements

Suggested spices to elevate taste

Ranch seasoning adds a nice kick. For more depth, try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of paprika. These spices boost the flavor without overpowering the dish.

Using fresh herbs for added flavor

Fresh parsley is a great addition. It adds color and flavor. You could also try chives or basil for a different taste. Add them at the end to keep their freshness.

Presentation Techniques

Creative serving ideas

Serve the Crack Chicken Penne in a large, shallow bowl. This gives it a nice look. Sprinkle some extra cheddar on top. Add a bit of fresh parsley for color.

Pairing suggestions for a complete meal

Pair this dish with crusty bread. It soaks up the creamy sauce and adds texture. A side salad with greens and a light dressing balances the meal nicely.

Pro Tips

  1. Perfect Pasta: For the best texture, cook the penne pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce.
  2. Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, for a unique flavor profile.
  3. Seasoning Savvy: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning to your liking. A squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the overall flavor.
  4. Meal Prep Magic: This dish can be made in advance and reheated for quick lunches or dinners. Just add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to restore creaminess.

Variations

Healthier Options

You can make Crack Chicken Penne a bit healthier. Start by using whole wheat penne. Whole wheat adds fiber and a nutty taste. You can also add more vegetables. Spinach or bell peppers work well. These veggies boost nutrition and add color to the dish.

Flavor Variations

Want to change the flavor? Swap ranch seasoning for other spice blends. Taco seasoning or Italian herbs can give it a new twist. You can also mix in different cheeses. Try pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a milder taste. Each cheese changes the dish’s creaminess and flavor.

Dietary Modifications

If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free penne. Many brands offer great pasta that cooks well. For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken. You can add chickpeas or mushrooms for protein. These options keep the dish hearty and satisfying.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your Crack Chicken Penne fresh, start by placing it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the dish. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. This way, you can enjoy it later without losing taste.

Reheating Guidelines

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat with care. The best way is to use the stovetop. Just place it in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if it looks dry. Stir often to keep it creamy. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid hot spots. This helps retain that creamy, delightful flavor.

FAQs

What is Crack Chicken?

Crack Chicken is a creamy dish that gets its name from its rich, addictive flavor. It combines tender chicken, ranch seasoning, and creamy cheese. The blend of spices and flavors makes it hard to resist. The “crack” flavor profile comes from the ranch mix and creamy cheeses. Together, they create a savory taste that many love.

Can I use raw chicken?

Yes, you can use raw chicken in this recipe. If you choose raw chicken, cook it in the skillet first. Heat the olive oil and add the chicken before adding any spices. Cook it until it’s no longer pink, about 10-12 minutes. Then, you can add the garlic powder and ranch seasoning. This method gives the dish a fresh, juicy taste.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids usually love creamy pasta dishes. To make it even more appealing, you can add fun shapes of pasta. You could also let kids help mix in the peas or sprinkle cheese on top. This makes it a fun cooking experience for them. Plus, the flavors are mild, so they will likely enjoy it.

How do I make it spicy?

To add some heat, you can include crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Mix these in with the olive oil and chicken. If you want more spice, try using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. Adding jalapeños or diced green chilies can also spice things up. Adjust the heat to your liking, and enjoy the kick!

This recipe shines with wholesome ingredients like penne pasta and tender chicken. Using cream cheese and sharp cheddar brings creamy richness, while ranch seasoning adds a fun twist. I emphasized fresh and low-sodium options for better taste and health. Whether you customize it or follow this guide, enjoy your creamy pasta delight. These tips make it easy to serve and store leftovers too. Your meal can be as simple or exciting as you choose. Happy cookin

- 12 oz penne pasta - 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded - 8 oz cream cheese, softened - 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth - 1 packet ranch seasoning mix - 1 cup frozen peas, thawed - 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - Salt and black pepper to taste - Fresh parsley for garnish Using fresh ingredients is key for great taste. Fresh items have more flavor and nutrients. They also keep the dish vibrant. When you pick fresh food, your meal shines. Opting for low-sodium options helps in many ways. It reduces salt intake, making meals healthier. Low-sodium broth still gives good flavor without the extra salt. You can enjoy your dish with less worry about health impacts. {{ingredient_image_2}} Bringing water to a boil Start by filling a large pot with water. Add a pinch of salt for flavor. Place the pot on the stove and turn the heat to high. Wait for the water to come to a full boil. Cooking penne to al dente Once the water boils, add 12 oz of penne pasta. Cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. You want it to be al dente, which means it should still have a little bite to it. After cooking, drain the pasta, but save a splash of the pasta water just in case. Heating olive oil and adding shredded chicken In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add 2 cups of shredded chicken. Stir it well to coat the chicken in the oil. Adding garlic powder and ranch seasoning Next, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix. Stir everything together for about 2-3 minutes until it smells amazing. Pouring in chicken broth and simmering Now, slowly pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together. Mixing in cream cheese and cheddar cheese Reduce the heat to low and add 8 oz of softened cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts into the broth. Then, mix in 1 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely. Folding in the cooked pasta Take the drained pasta and gently fold it into the chicken and cheese mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Adjusting seasoning and garnishing Finally, taste the dish and add salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed. Cook on low heat for another 2-3 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. Enjoy your Crack Chicken Penne! How to achieve the perfect al dente pasta To get the best penne, start with a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil, then add the pasta. Cook it for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often. Taste a piece before draining. It should be firm but not hard. Ensuring the sauce is creamy and well-combined To keep your sauce smooth, add cream cheese when the heat is low. Stir it in slowly until it melts. If it seems thick, use a splash of reserved pasta water. This helps mix everything well. Suggested spices to elevate taste Ranch seasoning adds a nice kick. For more depth, try adding garlic powder, onion powder, or even a pinch of paprika. These spices boost the flavor without overpowering the dish. Using fresh herbs for added flavor Fresh parsley is a great addition. It adds color and flavor. You could also try chives or basil for a different taste. Add them at the end to keep their freshness. Creative serving ideas Serve the Crack Chicken Penne in a large, shallow bowl. This gives it a nice look. Sprinkle some extra cheddar on top. Add a bit of fresh parsley for color. Pairing suggestions for a complete meal Pair this dish with crusty bread. It soaks up the creamy sauce and adds texture. A side salad with greens and a light dressing balances the meal nicely. Pro Tips Perfect Pasta: For the best texture, cook the penne pasta just until al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. Cheese Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or Gouda, for a unique flavor profile. Seasoning Savvy: Taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning to your liking. A squeeze of lemon juice can enhance the overall flavor. Meal Prep Magic: This dish can be made in advance and reheated for quick lunches or dinners. Just add a splash of chicken broth when reheating to restore creaminess. {{image_4}} You can make Crack Chicken Penne a bit healthier. Start by using whole wheat penne. Whole wheat adds fiber and a nutty taste. You can also add more vegetables. Spinach or bell peppers work well. These veggies boost nutrition and add color to the dish. Want to change the flavor? Swap ranch seasoning for other spice blends. Taco seasoning or Italian herbs can give it a new twist. You can also mix in different cheeses. Try pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a milder taste. Each cheese changes the dish's creaminess and flavor. If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free penne. Many brands offer great pasta that cooks well. For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken. You can add chickpeas or mushrooms for protein. These options keep the dish hearty and satisfying. To keep your Crack Chicken Penne fresh, start by placing it in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps flavors intact. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the dish. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. This way, you can enjoy it later without losing taste. When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat with care. The best way is to use the stovetop. Just place it in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water if it looks dry. Stir often to keep it creamy. You can also use the microwave for quick reheating. Place it in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid hot spots. This helps retain that creamy, delightful flavor. Crack Chicken is a creamy dish that gets its name from its rich, addictive flavor. It combines tender chicken, ranch seasoning, and creamy cheese. The blend of spices and flavors makes it hard to resist. The “crack” flavor profile comes from the ranch mix and creamy cheeses. Together, they create a savory taste that many love. Yes, you can use raw chicken in this recipe. If you choose raw chicken, cook it in the skillet first. Heat the olive oil and add the chicken before adding any spices. Cook it until it's no longer pink, about 10-12 minutes. Then, you can add the garlic powder and ranch seasoning. This method gives the dish a fresh, juicy taste. Absolutely! Kids usually love creamy pasta dishes. To make it even more appealing, you can add fun shapes of pasta. You could also let kids help mix in the peas or sprinkle cheese on top. This makes it a fun cooking experience for them. Plus, the flavors are mild, so they will likely enjoy it. To add some heat, you can include crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Mix these in with the olive oil and chicken. If you want more spice, try using pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. Adding jalapeños or diced green chilies can also spice things up. Adjust the heat to your liking, and enjoy the kick! This recipe shines with wholesome ingredients like penne pasta and tender chicken. Using cream cheese and sharp cheddar brings creamy richness, while ranch seasoning adds a fun twist. I emphasized fresh and low-sodium options for better taste and health. Whether you customize it or follow this guide, enjoy your creamy pasta delight. These tips make it easy to serve and store leftovers too. Your meal can be as simple or exciting as you choose. Happy cooking!

Creamy Crack Chicken Penne Delight

A delicious creamy pasta dish featuring shredded chicken, cheese, and ranch seasoning.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • to taste fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Carefully add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture, typically about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a splash of pasta water if needed later.
  • In a spacious skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the shredded chicken along with the garlic powder and ranch seasoning mix. Stir well to evenly coat the chicken with the spices, and cook for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
  • Gradually pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to simmer for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to ensure the flavors meld beautifully.
  • Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cream cheese is fully melted and seamlessly blended into the chicken broth mixture, creating a creamy sauce.
  • Incorporate the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and the thawed peas into the skillet. Mix well, allowing the cheese to melt completely and the mixture to heat through, approximately 3-4 minutes.
  • Gently fold in the drained penne pasta with the chicken and cheese mixture, tossing everything together until each piece of pasta is generously coated with the creamy sauce.
  • Taste and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper according to your preference. Allow the mixture to cook together on low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavors.
  • Once removed from the heat, finish by garnishing with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.

Notes

For an appealing presentation, serve in a large, shallow bowl topped with extra cheese and parsley.
Keyword chicken, creamy, easy, pasta

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