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–+ servings

Creamy Ranch Pasta

Discover the irresistible Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta, a one-pot wonder combining tender chicken, penne, and a zesty ranch sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.25 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 8-ounce package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 1-ounce package dry ranch dressing mix
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
  • 1 cup chopped red bell pepper
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
  • 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet for cooking chicken and making sauce
  • Whisk for mixing sauce
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables

Method
 

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add chicken and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Cook chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes, then set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  5. Pour in chicken broth, whisk in cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
  6. Add ranch dressing mix and milk, bring to a simmer while stirring until sauce thickens.
  7. Stir in cooked pasta, chicken, peas, and red bell pepper until combined.
  8. Mix in grated Parmesan, garnish with parsley, serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 31gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 850mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

To enhance the flavor, add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce before serving for a fresh note. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator, or freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a bit of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
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