Description
A rich and flavorful comfort dish with tender chicken, a luscious ranch-inspired sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. This hearty meal is ready in 25 minutes and perfect for quick weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, offering creamy indulgence without the hassle.
Ingredients
8 ounces penne or rotini pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente (9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook 5-7 minutes until golden brown
Add diced onion and cook 3 minutes until softened
Stir in minced garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant
Pour chicken broth into the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes
Reduce heat to medium-low and add heavy cream and ranch dressing. Cook 3-4 minutes until sauce thickens
Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and sauce is smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper
Toss cooked pasta into the skillet, coating it evenly with the sauce and chicken. Warm for 1-2 minutes
Notes
Use gluten-free pasta if preferred
Double ranch dressing for extra flavor
Add frozen peas or cherry tomatoes for a pop of color and texture
Store leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg