Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta: A Deliciously Comforting Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich, creamy goodness of Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta. This dish combines the heartiness of pasta with the savory flavors of chicken, the tanginess of ranch seasoning, and a luscious cheese sauce. It’s a recipe that not only satisfies hunger but also brings a delightful blend of tastes and textures to the table.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

2 large chicken breasts (about 1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

For the Pasta:

8 oz (about 2 cups) of pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work well)

Salt for boiling water

For the Sauce:

1 tablespoon butter

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 packet (about 1 oz) ranch seasoning mix

Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Extra shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Chicken:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

Add the chicken to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cook the Pasta:

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce:

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat.

Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute until it forms a roux and is slightly golden.

Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream, ensuring there are no lumps.

Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it starts to thicken (about 2-3 minutes).

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.

Mix in the ranch seasoning packet, adjusting to taste.

Combine and Serve:

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the cheese sauce.

Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the sauce.

Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.

Garnish and Enjoy:

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra shredded cheese if desired.

Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy, and flavorful goodness of your Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta.

Tips for Success:

Chicken Variations: For a different twist, you can use rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken instead of cooking fresh chicken. Just shred or chop it and add it to the sauce.

Pasta Choices: Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta. Whole wheat or gluten-free options can also work well.

Extra Veggies: Add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or spinach to the dish for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté them with the chicken or add them to the pasta while it cooks.

Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re preparing dinner for your family or hosting a casual get-together, this dish is sure to impress and delight.