Description
Creamy Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta brings restaurant-quality comfort right to home kitchens. Savory chicken and tangy ranch dressing combine in a quick, satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound (454 grams) chicken breast, diced
- 12 ounces (340 grams) penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Liquid Ingredients:
- 1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set pasta aside.
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until shimmering.
- Sauté chicken for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken from skillet and let rest briefly.
- Reduce skillet heat to medium-low. Pour chicken broth and heavy cream into the same skillet, whisking in ranch seasoning until fully incorporated.
- Simmer sauce for 4-5 minutes, allowing liquid to slightly thicken. Gradually sprinkle cheddar and Parmesan cheese into sauce, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy.
- Return cooked chicken to skillet, cutting into bite-sized pieces if desired. Gently fold pasta into sauce, ensuring each strand is evenly coated.
- Allow mixture to warm through for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Transfer to serving dishes and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.
Notes
- Select high-quality ranch seasoning mix for maximum flavor depth and authentic taste profile.
- Consider using whole wheat pasta to boost nutritional value and add nutty undertones to the dish.
- Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to ensure lean protein and easier preparation.
- Experiment with Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter, protein-rich alternative that maintains creamy texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg