Here’s a delicious recipe for Ranch Chicken Pasta:
Ranch Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped bacon, cooked (optional)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta:
- 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.
- Cook the Chicken:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- Add the chicken broth to the skillet with the chicken, stirring to deglaze the pan and scrape up any browned bits. Reduce the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to reach your desired consistency.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta in the creamy ranch sauce. Stir in the sour cream and mix until well combined.
- Optional Additions:
- If using, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cooked bacon to the pasta. Stir to combine.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
- Enjoy:
- Serve the Ranch Chicken Pasta hot, and enjoy this creamy, flavorful meal!
Tips:
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas for added color and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Enjoy your creamy and flavourful Ranch Chicken Pasta!