Cheesy Bbq Ranch Chicken Alfredo Recipe

The Zesty Cheesy BBQ Ranch Chicken Alfredo Recipe You’ll Love

Tucking into a creamy bbq ranch chicken alfredo promises pure comfort on a plate.

Melted cheese and smoky barbecue flavors dance together in this unexpected culinary adventure.

Layers of rich sauce coat tender chicken pieces with irresistible zest.

Familiar ingredients combine in surprising ways that make taste buds sing.

Every forkful brings a delightful blend of tangy and smooth sensations.

Weeknight dinners just got an exciting upgrade with this crowd-pleasing masterpiece.

Prepare to savor every single bite of this delectable creation.

Cheesy BBQ Ranch Chicken Alfredo Bursting with Flavor

  • Blast Flavor Combinations: Dive into a mouthwatering blend of BBQ, ranch, and classic Alfredo that transforms ordinary pasta into an extraordinary culinary adventure.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap chicken for other proteins like shrimp or pulled pork, making this recipe adaptable to personal tastes and pantry ingredients.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: Prepare this restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy families craving a delicious and satisfying dinner without extensive cooking skills.
  • One-Skillet Wonder: Minimize cleanup with this single-pan recipe that streamlines cooking process and reduces dish-washing time, making meal preparation stress-free and convenient.

Ingredients for Cheesy BBQ Ranch Chicken Alfredo Dish

For the Pasta:
  • Fettuccine: A classic Italian pasta that provides a wide, flat surface perfect for capturing the rich, creamy sauce.
For the Protein:
  • Shredded Chicken: Tender and juicy protein that adds substance and flavor to the dish.
For the Sauce Base:
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious and smooth base for the Alfredo sauce.
  • BBQ Sauce: Adds a tangy and smoky flavor profile to the creamy sauce.
  • Ranch Dressing: Brings a zesty and herbal dimension to the sauce.
For the Cheese:
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melts beautifully and provides a sharp, rich cheesy flavor to the dish.
For the Aromatics and Seasonings:
  • Garlic, Salt, Pepper: Enhance the overall depth and taste of the recipe.
For the Optional Garnish:
  • Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, fresh note and visual appeal to the finished dish.
For the Cooking Fat:
  • Olive Oil: Helps to sauté the garlic and prevent sticking in the skillet.

How to Cook Cheesy BBQ Ranch Chicken Alfredo Well

Step 1: Boil Pasta to Perfection

Grab your fettuccine and cook it in a pot of salted water following the package guidelines. You want the pasta to be perfectly al dente – tender but with a slight bite.

Once cooked, drain the water and set the pasta aside, ready for its cheesy adventure.

Step 2: Awaken the Garlic

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium flame.

Toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle and dance for about a minute. The kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that signals deliciousness is on its way.

Step 3: Create a Creamy Flavor Fusion

Pour in heavy cream, BBQ sauce, and ranch dressing into the skillet. Stir these ingredients together and let them simmer gently.

Watch as the sauce starts to blend and become a magical, tangy mixture that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Step 4: Welcome the Chicken

Introduce the shredded chicken to your simmering sauce.

Stir it around, letting the meat warm up and soak in all those incredible flavors. The chicken will become incredibly tender and tasty.

Step 5: Cheese Transformation

Time to add the star of the show – shredded cheddar cheese! Sprinkle it into the sauce, stirring constantly.

Watch as the cheese melts and creates a smooth, velvety texture. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to elevate the taste.

Step 6: Marry Pasta and Sauce

Gently fold the cooked pasta into the cheesy, saucy mixture. Ensure every single strand gets coated with the luxurious sauce.

Each bite will be a flavor explosion.

Step 7: Serve and Celebrate

Plate up this mouthwatering creation immediately.

If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top. Dive in and enjoy the ultimate comfort food that combines BBQ, ranch, and cheesy goodness!

Tips to Nail Cheesy BBQ Ranch Chicken Alfredo Texture

  • Cook fettuccine just until al dente to maintain a perfect chewy consistency and prevent mushy noodles.
  • Adjust BBQ and ranch dressing quantities to create a harmonious blend that doesn't overpower the creamy base.
  • Add cheese gradually and stir continuously to ensure smooth, even melting without lumps.
  • Simmer sauce gently to allow natural thickening and prevent separation of cream and cheese.
  • Use freshly shredded or rotisserie chicken to maintain tenderness and maximize flavor absorption.

Variations to Change Up Cheesy BBQ Ranch Chicken Alfredo

  • Smoky Southwest Chicken Alfredo: Replace BBQ sauce with chipotle sauce, add black beans, corn, and diced green chilies for a spicy southwestern kick.
  • Buffalo Blue Cheese Chicken Alfredo: Swap ranch for blue cheese dressing, mix in buffalo sauce, top with crumbled blue cheese and chopped green onions.
  • Mediterranean Herb Chicken Alfredo: Use sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and feta cheese, substitute ranch with a blend of oregano, basil, and garlic.
  • Bacon Ranch Chicken Alfredo: Crisp up bacon bits, sprinkle on top, add extra ranch dressing for a smoky, tangy flavor profile.

Pairings That Go Great with BBQ Ranch Chicken Alfredo

  • Savor Complementary Wine Pairing: Crisp chardonnay cuts through the creamy richness, balancing the bold BBQ and ranch flavors with its buttery undertones.
  • Elevate Side Dish Selection: Grilled corn on the cob with smoky butter complements the BBQ notes and adds a sweet crunch to the creamy pasta.
  • Refresh with Zesty Salad: Tangy mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the heavy, cheesy chicken alfredo.
  • Boost Beverage Choice: Craft beer with hoppy characteristics helps cleanse the palate and matches the robust BBQ and ranch flavor profile.

Best Practices to Store Cheesy BBQ Ranch Chicken Alfredo

Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keeps fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Transfer to freezer-safe container, seal tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing for longer to maintain best quality.

Place portion in microwave-safe dish, sprinkle few drops of water, cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Stop when steaming hot.

Pour pasta into skillet, add splash of cream or milk to restore moisture. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring gently until heated through. This method helps prevent sauce separation and maintains creamy texture.

FAQs

  • What type of chicken works best for this recipe?

Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken are perfect because they’re already cooked and easy to shred, saving you preparation time.

  • Can I make this dish spicier?

Yes, add a dash of hot sauce or sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce to give it a spicy kick that complements the BBQ and ranch flavors.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prepping?

Absolutely! This Cheesy BBQ Ranch Chicken Alfredo can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and reheats well, making it an excellent option for quick meals during the week.

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Cheesy Bbq Ranch Chicken Alfredo Recipe

Cheesy Bbq Ranch Chicken Alfredo Recipe


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4.6 from 33 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 2 1x

Description

Sizzling ranch-infused chicken meets creamy alfredo in this mouthwatering BBQ chicken masterpiece. Cheese, tangy sauce, and smoky flavors combine for an irresistible dinner that will satisfy all comfort food cravings.


Ingredients

Scale

Proteins:

  • 2 chicken breasts, cooked and shredded

Pasta and Dairy:

  • 8 ounces (226 grams) fettuccine or pasta of choice
  • 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (100 grams) cheddar cheese, shredded

Sauces and Seasonings:

  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) BBQ sauce
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) ranch dressing
  • 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the fettuccine according to package directions, ensuring a perfectly al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
  2. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat, introducing minced garlic and sautéing until aromatic, approximately 60 seconds.
  3. Whisk together heavy cream, tangy BBQ sauce, and creamy ranch dressing, creating a rich, flavorful base. Allow the mixture to reach a gentle simmer, stirring periodically.
  4. Incorporate shredded chicken into the simmering sauce, ensuring complete heat distribution and flavor integration.
  5. Gradually fold shredded cheddar cheese into the sauce, stirring constantly until completely melted and achieving a silky, uniform consistency. Season with salt and pepper to elevate the taste profile.
  6. Transfer cooked pasta directly into the skillet, meticulously tossing to ensure each strand is lavishly coated with the decadent sauce.
  7. Plate immediately, optional fresh parsley garnish adds a vibrant touch. Serve piping hot for maximum flavor and texture enjoyment.

Notes

  • Opt for whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions and boost nutritional value.
  • Customize protein by swapping chicken with pulled pork, turkey, or plant-based alternatives for varied meal experiences.
  • Use low-fat dairy or Greek yogurt to create a lighter version without compromising rich, creamy texture.
  • Enhance nutrition by adding roasted vegetables like bell peppers or spinach directly into the sauce for extra vitamins and color.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 2
  • Calories: 900 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 850 mg
  • Fat: 60 g
  • Saturated Fat: 25 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 30 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 55 g
  • Cholesterol: 160 mg
Ethan Caldwell

Ethan Caldwell

Founder & Culinary Innovator

Expertise

Farm-to-table cooking, Seasonal recipe creation, Culinary storytelling, Food photography and styling​

Education

The Chef’s Academy (Indianapolis, IN)

  • Program: Associate Degree in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Focused on sustainable cooking practices, regional American cuisine, and recipe development.​

Ethan didn’t just fall in love with food, he grew into it, surrounded by fields, farmers’ markets, and family meals that told a story.
After sharpening his skills at The Chef’s Academy, he took his passion straight into the farm-to-table movement, working side-by-side with local growers and seasonal flavors.
He believes every recipe should feel like a walk through a summer market: colorful, fresh, and full of possibility.
Outside the kitchen, Ethan’s idea of a perfect day is hiking mountain trails, digging into heirloom vegetables, and hosting casual dinners where seconds are always encouraged.

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