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Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta

Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta: Easy Comfort in Every Bite

This Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta is a delightful one-pot meal combining tender rotini, ranch-seasoned cream sauce, and succulent chicken for a comforting family-friendly dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 tablespoon Olive Oil Can substitute with vegetable oil.
  • 1 lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Consider using leftover or rotisserie chicken.
  • Salt Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
  • Black Pepper Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Sauce
  • 3 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh is preferred.
  • 1 tablespoon Ranch Seasoning Mix Feel free to make a homemade mix.
  • 2 cups Chicken Broth Opt for vegetable broth for a lighter version.
  • 2 cups Heavy Cream Substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
For the Pasta and Cheeses
  • 8 oz Rotini Pasta Try penne or fusilli if preferred.
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Swap in cheddar or Monterey Jack if desired.
  • 0.5 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Pecorino Romano is a great alternative.
For Garnishing & Extras
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley Chopped; adds color and freshness.
  • 1 cup Steamed Broccoli Optional; boosts nutrition.
  • 0.5 cup Sliced Mushrooms Optional; adds an earthy note.
  • Red Pepper Flakes Pinch; optional for added spice.

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Steps
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then sear for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  2. Lower the heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly golden.
  3. Stir in ranch seasoning mix, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Increase heat to bring to a simmer, scraping brown bits from the skillet.
  4. Add rotini pasta to the simmering sauce. Stir occasionally and cook uncovered for 10-12 minutes until pasta is tender and sauce thickens.
  5. Reduce heat to low, mix in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted. Return the seared chicken to the skillet and coat everything with the sauce.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure your cream and broth are at room temperature to prevent curdling. Avoid freezing the dish as the cream sauce may separate.

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