Craving a comforting, cheesy, and utterly delicious dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a simple, healthy meal the whole family will love, packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make. Forget takeout – homemade goodness is just around the corner! This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, quick dinner ideas, and healthy meals all rolled into one delicious dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (16 oz) package pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 (10.75 oz) can condensed cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup milk
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional, for extra cheesiness!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
While the onions and garlic are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the cream of chicken soup, milk, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Pasta
Stir in the cooked pasta and both cheeses. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the cheese to melt completely and the flavors to meld. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta:
- For extra flavor: Use homemade ranch seasoning instead of the packet mix.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add veggies: Throw in some chopped bell peppers, broccoli florets, or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrients and color.
- Creamier sauce: Use heavy cream instead of milk for a richer, creamier sauce.
Variations:
- Buffalo Chicken Ranch Pasta: Add a tablespoon or two of your favorite buffalo wing sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta: Crumble cooked bacon over the top before serving for added texture and flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used. Always consult a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
This cheesy ranch chicken pasta is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can create with simple ingredients and minimal effort. It's a quick dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, and a great recipe for those practicing homemade cooking. Enjoy!