If you’re looking for a comforting meal that comes together effortlessly yet delivers a burst of rich, cheesy flavor, this One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender ground chicken mingling with a creamy, tangy ranch-infused sauce, all coating perfectly cooked penne pasta in a single pan — making dinner prep a breeze without sacrificing any of the deliciousness. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but each one plays an important role in bringing this dish together: from the savory punch of the ranch seasoning to the gooey, melty cheddar that creates the signature creamy texture.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean protein base that cooks quickly and soaks up all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for browning the chicken to lock in juiciness and add a slight richness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz): This is the magic flavor booster that gives the ranch tang and herbaceous notes everyone loves.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Provides moisture and savory background to cook the pasta right in the pan.
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended): Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy when combined with cheese and cream cheese.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to form that irresistibly cheesy sauce coating every bite.
- 8 oz penne pasta (uncooked): The perfect shape to hold onto the creamy sauce and chicken bits.
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened: Adds extra silkiness and richness to the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Balances and enhances all the flavors.
- Optional: fresh parsley or green onions for garnish: A pop of color and freshness to brighten the dish.
How to Make One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook it until it’s nicely browned, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds flavor with caramelization. Just before the chicken is fully cooked, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release that mouthwatering aroma.
Step 2: Add Ranch Seasoning
Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the browned chicken and stir well to distribute all those herby, tangy flavors evenly. This seasoning is the heart of the dish, transforming simple chicken into something deliciously irresistible.
Step 3: Pour in Broth and Milk
Next, pour in the chicken broth and milk. Stir thoroughly to combine so that the liquid starts infusing the chicken and seasoning with a creamy base. This is the sauce’s foundation, so make sure it’s mixed well before you move on.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
Add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the skillet. Put a lid on and let it cook over medium-low heat for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom. The pasta will absorb the liquid and become tender right in the pot, soaking up all that savory goodness.
Step 5: Blend in Cream Cheese
Once the pasta is cooked through, stir in the softened cream cheese until it’s fully melted and smoothly incorporated into the sauce, adding an irresistible richness and creamy texture. This step elevates the pasta from good to absolutely crave-worthy.
Step 6: Melt Cheddar Cheese
Now gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted into a velvety, cheesy sauce that coats every piece of pasta and chicken. This final cheesy blast is what makes the One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe truly satisfying.
Step 7: Season and Adjust
Taste and finish with salt and black pepper to your liking. If the sauce feels a bit thick, add a splash of milk to loosen it up for the perfect consistency. The balance here lets those flavors shine.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions if you like a little fresh color and a subtle herbal note. This simple garnish adds a gorgeous finishing touch that makes the dish even more inviting.
How to Serve One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or sliced green onions lift the dish visually and flavor-wise, cutting through the creaminess with a fresh, vibrant pop. A little extra cheddar or a light dusting of paprika can also add a festive look.
Side Dishes
Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or steamed broccoli for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls are also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce, making every bite more enjoyable.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of extra cheddar or a drizzle of ranch dressing on top for a fun twist. You might even try layering it in a casserole dish topped with crunchy breadcrumbs and baking briefly for a bubbly, golden crust — an amazing way to switch things up.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This recipe keeps well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it an ideal next-day meal with minimal effort.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. To do this, allow the pasta to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Keep in mind the texture of the pasta might soften slightly upon thawing, but the creamy flavor remains just as delicious.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen up the sauce and bring back that creamy consistency. Stir frequently to heat evenly without drying out the pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great here because it holds onto the sauce well, you can swap it with rotini, shells, or even macaroni. Just be sure to adjust cooking time if needed since different shapes may cook faster or slower.
Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can try using dairy-free milk alternatives like oat or almond milk and dairy-free cream cheese and cheddar substitutes. The texture won’t be as rich, but it still makes a tasty and creamy dish.
Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?
Definitely! Dice or shred cooked chicken breast and add it in after the pasta is nearly done. This takes away the step of browning ground chicken but still delivers plenty of flavorful protein.
How spicy is this pasta?
This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe is mild and creamy, perfect for all ages. If you want a little kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when seasoning.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, doubling works well but make sure your skillet or pot is large enough for everything to cook evenly. You might need to increase cooking times slightly, especially for the pasta to become tender throughout.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe is truly a game changer when you want a fuss-free comfort food fix that doesn’t compromise on flavor. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of cozy ranch goodness — all cooked in one pan so cleanup is a breeze. I encourage you to try it out soon; it might just become one of your new favorite go-to dinners!
Print
One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta is a quick and comforting meal featuring ground chicken simmered with ranch seasoning, penne pasta, and a creamy blend of cheddar and cream cheese. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, offering a rich, cheesy dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Protein and Dairy
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended)
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
Dry Ingredients
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 8 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
Liquids and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups chicken broth
Seasonings and Garnish
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground chicken and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma.
- Add the ranch seasoning: Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the browned chicken and stir well to evenly coat the meat.
- Add liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked penne pasta to the skillet. Cover and cook on medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed much of the liquid.
- Incorporate cream cheese: Stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted and blended into the sauce, creating a creamy texture.
- Add cheddar cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it melts completely and the sauce becomes rich and creamy.
- Season: Taste and season with salt and black pepper as desired. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk to adjust consistency.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving for a fresh, colorful finish.
Notes
- Using whole milk enhances the creaminess of the sauce, but you can substitute with 2% or milk alternatives if preferred.
- Make sure to stir occasionally during pasta cooking to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- For a spicier twist, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the ranch seasoning.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This recipe can be adapted to use ground turkey or beef as alternatives to ground chicken.
