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Creamy Spicy Ranch Chicken & Pasta

Easy Creamy Spicy Ranch Chicken & Pasta for Cozy Nights

A satisfying weeknight meal that combines creamy ranch flavors with tender chicken and pasta.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Feel free to substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
  • 1 pound chicken pieces (bite-sized) Boneless thighs can offer more juiciness.
  • to taste salt Adjust to taste while considering other salty ingredients.
  • to taste black pepper Freshly ground is best for improved flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder Substitute with fresh garlic for a stronger taste.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Fresh onions can be sautéed if you prefer.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Smoked paprika can enhance the dish's smokiness.
  • to taste red pepper flakes Adjust based on your spice tolerance.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 8 ounces cream cheese Greek yogurt can be a lighter alternative.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Vegetable broth works well too.
  • ½ cup milk Consider non-dairy alternatives for a lactose-free option.
  • 1 packet dry ranch dressing mix Homemade ranch seasoning can also be used.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces pasta (e.g., penne) Any pasta type that holds sauce can work.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Mozzarella makes for a milder taste option.
For Garnishing
  • to taste fresh parsley Optional for garnish; other herbs like chives can also be used.

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 1-2 minutes.
  2. Add bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet, seasoning them with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
  4. Reduce the heat in the skillet to low and add 8 ounces of cream cheese. Stir for 2-3 minutes until melted.
  5. Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and ½ cup of milk, stirring well to create a smooth sauce.
  6. Sprinkle in the dry ranch dressing mix, stirring until fully blended.
  7. Toss the drained pasta into the skillet to coat thoroughly in the sauce.
  8. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
  9. Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish is versatile; feel free to adjust ingredients to suit your taste.

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