Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavor-packed dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or potlucks. Tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich ranch-flavored sauce come together in this crowd-pleasing meal that’s sure to be a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 packet (1 oz) Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with half the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and the remaining ranch seasoning mix. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for Success
- Use fresh chicken and quality cheese for the best flavor.
- Customize the dish by adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half the heavy cream with milk or use a light cream alternative.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is rich, creamy, and bursting with the iconic flavor of Hidden Valley Ranch. It’s easy to make, highly customizable, and perfect for feeding a hungry family. Whether it’s a quick dinner or a dish for entertaining, Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta is a guaranteed hit!