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Creamy Chicken Ranch Pasta - The Ultimate Comfort Food Dinner Recipe

This creamy chicken ranch pasta combines tender chicken, savory beef strips, and pasta in a rich ranch-infused cream sauce that's ready in just 30 minutes. The dish transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary comfort food that brings the whole family together for a satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
  • 8 oz beef strips (turkey ham alternative)
  • 12 oz pasta (penne or fusilli work well)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. While pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken cubes and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the beef strips and cook until crispy, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
  4. Reduce heat to medium and add diced onion to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and whisk in the ranch seasoning, black pepper, and paprika. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Stir in both cheeses until melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.
  7. Return the cooked chicken and beef strips to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving hot.

Notes

Don't overcook the pasta - cook al dente. Reserve pasta water for perfect sauce consistency. Can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to make lighter. For crispy top, transfer to baking dish and broil with extra cheese.