![- 2 cups penne pasta - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 packet ranch dressing mix (about 1 oz) - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup fresh spinach - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh parsley for garnish To make savory chicken ranch pasta, gather these simple ingredients. Each one adds flavor and texture to the dish. The penne pasta serves as the base, providing a hearty feel. The diced chicken brings protein and richness to the meal. Using ranch dressing mix gives a zesty kick. The heavy cream balances the flavors well and makes the sauce creamy. Fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes brighten the dish and add color. When cooking, use quality ingredients for the best taste. Fresh herbs and good olive oil can elevate your dish. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to fit your palate. - Calories per serving: Approximately 500 - Protein content: About 30g - Dietary considerations: This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. This dish is not only tasty but also satisfying. You get a good amount of protein from the chicken, which is great for muscle health. For those watching their diet, the dish offers a nice balance of carbs and protein. If you want to explore the full recipe, [Full Recipe] is available for you to check out! Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add 2 cups of penne pasta to the pot. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of diced chicken breasts. Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. In the same skillet, stir in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 packet of ranch dressing mix. Mix well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it simmers, reduce the heat to low to let the flavors meld. Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring the sauce. This will add richness. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Then, add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes and 1 cup of fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften. Now, gently fold the cooked penne pasta into the sauce. Make sure each piece of pasta is coated. Allow everything to heat through for 2-3 minutes. Finally, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a creamy finish. Check the seasoning and adjust if needed. Serve your dish and enjoy! For the full recipe, check out the details above. To make your Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta shine, adjust the seasoning to your taste. Start with salt and pepper. You can add more ranch dressing mix for a bolder flavor. Consider using fresh herbs like basil or thyme. These herbs can boost the taste and add freshness. Dried herbs work too, but fresh gives a brighter flavor. Browning the chicken perfectly is key. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps lock in juices and adds flavor. Cook the chicken in batches if your skillet is small. This way, it browns evenly. To avoid a clumpy sauce, stir the cream gently. Add it slowly and mix well. This keeps the sauce smooth and creamy. If it thickens too much, add a bit more chicken broth. For sides, consider a simple green salad. It adds a fresh crunch and balances the meal. Garlic bread pairs well too. It’s great for soaking up the sauce. When plating, use a large bowl. Add the pasta and sauce, then top with parsley. This gives a nice pop of color and looks appealing. For an extra touch, sprinkle some more Parmesan on top. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide to Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta. {{image_2}} You can switch out the chicken for other proteins. Shrimp or tofu works well too. Both options add a nice twist to the dish. If you prefer a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. You still get that creamy texture without the dairy. Want more kick? Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat. Just a pinch can spice things up. You can also mix in other veggies. Bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition. They will also make the dish more filling. Need to serve more people? Simply double the ingredients for larger servings. You can also make this a one-pot meal. After sautéing the chicken, add the pasta, sauce, and veggies all in one pot. This saves time and makes cleanup easier. For the full recipe, check the main article section! To keep your Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta fresh, you should store it in an airtight container. Place the pasta in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This helps keep bacteria at bay and maintains flavor. It will last for about three to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing. When freezing, let the pasta cool completely. Then, use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This method can extend storage up to three months. To reheat your pasta, use the stovetop for best results. Place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir frequently to avoid sticking. You can also use the microwave. Place the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, stirring often. This helps maintain texture. Avoid reheating too long, as it can make your pasta dry or overcooked. To make Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta gluten-free, you can easily swap out the penne pasta. Look for gluten-free penne made from rice or corn. This change keeps the dish tasty and safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken, then store them separately. When ready to serve, combine them with the sauce. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal without much fuss. If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free choice as well. Each option will give a different flavor, so pick what you enjoy. Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Just remember to reheat it gently to maintain the creamy sauce. Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like. Bowties, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta can work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose. For the full recipe, check out the other sections. This blog post shared a detailed recipe for Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta. You learned about all the key ingredients and step-by-step instructions. I also covered tips for enhancing flavors, various ingredient swaps, and how to store leftovers. Cooking can be fun and easy. Feel free to make the recipe your own or adjust it to fit your needs. Enjoy every bite and share the joy with friends and family. Happy cooking!](https://themomdish.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2a69ebb2-818d-4569-ad9d-850a8edc6b9b.webp)
Do you want a quick, tasty dinner that’s sure to please? Look no further! My Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta combines juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and fresh veggies for a meal everyone will love. This easy recipe makes cooking fun and satisfying. In just a few steps, you’ll create a flavorful dish with simple ingredients you probably already have at home. Ready to impress your family? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
Complete Ingredients List
– 2 cups penne pasta
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 packet ranch dressing mix (about 1 oz)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh spinach
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley for garnish
To make savory chicken ranch pasta, gather these simple ingredients. Each one adds flavor and texture to the dish. The penne pasta serves as the base, providing a hearty feel. The diced chicken brings protein and richness to the meal.
Using ranch dressing mix gives a zesty kick. The heavy cream balances the flavors well and makes the sauce creamy. Fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes brighten the dish and add color.
When cooking, use quality ingredients for the best taste. Fresh herbs and good olive oil can elevate your dish. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to fit your palate.
Nutritional Information
– Calories per serving: Approximately 500
– Protein content: About 30g
– Dietary considerations: This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.
This dish is not only tasty but also satisfying. You get a good amount of protein from the chicken, which is great for muscle health. For those watching their diet, the dish offers a nice balance of carbs and protein.
If you want to explore the full recipe, [Full Recipe] is available for you to check out!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add 2 cups of penne pasta to the pot. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
Sautéing the Chicken
Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of diced chicken breasts. Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked.
Creating the Sauce
In the same skillet, stir in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 packet of ranch dressing mix. Mix well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it simmers, reduce the heat to low to let the flavors meld.
Adding Cream and Vegetables
Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring the sauce. This will add richness. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Then, add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes and 1 cup of fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
Final Touches
Now, gently fold the cooked penne pasta into the sauce. Make sure each piece of pasta is coated. Allow everything to heat through for 2-3 minutes. Finally, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a creamy finish. Check the seasoning and adjust if needed. Serve your dish and enjoy! For the full recipe, check out the details above.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Flavors
To make your Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta shine, adjust the seasoning to your taste. Start with salt and pepper. You can add more ranch dressing mix for a bolder flavor.
Consider using fresh herbs like basil or thyme. These herbs can boost the taste and add freshness. Dried herbs work too, but fresh gives a brighter flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Browning the chicken perfectly is key. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps lock in juices and adds flavor. Cook the chicken in batches if your skillet is small. This way, it browns evenly.
To avoid a clumpy sauce, stir the cream gently. Add it slowly and mix well. This keeps the sauce smooth and creamy. If it thickens too much, add a bit more chicken broth.
Serving Suggestions
For sides, consider a simple green salad. It adds a fresh crunch and balances the meal. Garlic bread pairs well too. It’s great for soaking up the sauce.
When plating, use a large bowl. Add the pasta and sauce, then top with parsley. This gives a nice pop of color and looks appealing. For an extra touch, sprinkle some more Parmesan on top.
For the full recipe, check out the complete guide to Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can switch out the chicken for other proteins. Shrimp or tofu works well too. Both options add a nice twist to the dish. If you prefer a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. You still get that creamy texture without the dairy.
Flavor Enhancements
Want more kick? Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat. Just a pinch can spice things up. You can also mix in other veggies. Bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition. They will also make the dish more filling.
Recipe Scaling
Need to serve more people? Simply double the ingredients for larger servings. You can also make this a one-pot meal. After sautéing the chicken, add the pasta, sauce, and veggies all in one pot. This saves time and makes cleanup easier. For the full recipe, check the main article section!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta fresh, you should store it in an airtight container. Place the pasta in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This helps keep bacteria at bay and maintains flavor. It will last for about three to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing.
When freezing, let the pasta cool completely. Then, use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This method can extend storage up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your pasta, use the stovetop for best results. Place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir frequently to avoid sticking.
You can also use the microwave. Place the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, stirring often. This helps maintain texture. Avoid reheating too long, as it can make your pasta dry or overcooked.
FAQs
How can I make Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta gluten-free?
To make Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta gluten-free, you can easily swap out the penne pasta. Look for gluten-free penne made from rice or corn. This change keeps the dish tasty and safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken, then store them separately. When ready to serve, combine them with the sauce. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal without much fuss.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free choice as well. Each option will give a different flavor, so pick what you enjoy.
How long does the dish last in the fridge?
Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Just remember to reheat it gently to maintain the creamy sauce.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like. Bowties, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta can work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose. For the full recipe, check out the other sections.
This blog post shared a detailed recipe for Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta. You learned about all the key ingredients and step-by-step instructions. I also covered tips for enhancing flavors, various ingredient swaps, and how to store leftovers.
Cooking can be fun and easy. Feel free to make the recipe your own or adjust it to fit your needs. Enjoy every bite and share the joy with friends and family. Happy cooking!
![- 2 cups penne pasta - 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 packet ranch dressing mix (about 1 oz) - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 cup fresh spinach - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Fresh parsley for garnish To make savory chicken ranch pasta, gather these simple ingredients. Each one adds flavor and texture to the dish. The penne pasta serves as the base, providing a hearty feel. The diced chicken brings protein and richness to the meal. Using ranch dressing mix gives a zesty kick. The heavy cream balances the flavors well and makes the sauce creamy. Fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes brighten the dish and add color. When cooking, use quality ingredients for the best taste. Fresh herbs and good olive oil can elevate your dish. Feel free to adjust the seasoning to fit your palate. - Calories per serving: Approximately 500 - Protein content: About 30g - Dietary considerations: This recipe can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta. This dish is not only tasty but also satisfying. You get a good amount of protein from the chicken, which is great for muscle health. For those watching their diet, the dish offers a nice balance of carbs and protein. If you want to explore the full recipe, [Full Recipe] is available for you to check out! Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add 2 cups of penne pasta to the pot. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 10-12 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add 1 pound of diced chicken breasts. Season the chicken with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked. In the same skillet, stir in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 packet of ranch dressing mix. Mix well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it simmers, reduce the heat to low to let the flavors meld. Gradually pour in 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring the sauce. This will add richness. Let the sauce simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Then, add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes and 1 cup of fresh spinach. Stir until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften. Now, gently fold the cooked penne pasta into the sauce. Make sure each piece of pasta is coated. Allow everything to heat through for 2-3 minutes. Finally, stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a creamy finish. Check the seasoning and adjust if needed. Serve your dish and enjoy! For the full recipe, check out the details above. To make your Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta shine, adjust the seasoning to your taste. Start with salt and pepper. You can add more ranch dressing mix for a bolder flavor. Consider using fresh herbs like basil or thyme. These herbs can boost the taste and add freshness. Dried herbs work too, but fresh gives a brighter flavor. Browning the chicken perfectly is key. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps lock in juices and adds flavor. Cook the chicken in batches if your skillet is small. This way, it browns evenly. To avoid a clumpy sauce, stir the cream gently. Add it slowly and mix well. This keeps the sauce smooth and creamy. If it thickens too much, add a bit more chicken broth. For sides, consider a simple green salad. It adds a fresh crunch and balances the meal. Garlic bread pairs well too. It’s great for soaking up the sauce. When plating, use a large bowl. Add the pasta and sauce, then top with parsley. This gives a nice pop of color and looks appealing. For an extra touch, sprinkle some more Parmesan on top. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide to Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta. {{image_2}} You can switch out the chicken for other proteins. Shrimp or tofu works well too. Both options add a nice twist to the dish. If you prefer a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. You still get that creamy texture without the dairy. Want more kick? Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for heat. Just a pinch can spice things up. You can also mix in other veggies. Bell peppers and zucchini add color and nutrition. They will also make the dish more filling. Need to serve more people? Simply double the ingredients for larger servings. You can also make this a one-pot meal. After sautéing the chicken, add the pasta, sauce, and veggies all in one pot. This saves time and makes cleanup easier. For the full recipe, check the main article section! To keep your Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta fresh, you should store it in an airtight container. Place the pasta in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This helps keep bacteria at bay and maintains flavor. It will last for about three to four days. For longer storage, consider freezing. When freezing, let the pasta cool completely. Then, use freezer-safe bags or containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. This method can extend storage up to three months. To reheat your pasta, use the stovetop for best results. Place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it moist. Stir frequently to avoid sticking. You can also use the microwave. Place the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, stirring often. This helps maintain texture. Avoid reheating too long, as it can make your pasta dry or overcooked. To make Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta gluten-free, you can easily swap out the penne pasta. Look for gluten-free penne made from rice or corn. This change keeps the dish tasty and safe for those with gluten sensitivities. Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the pasta and chicken, then store them separately. When ready to serve, combine them with the sauce. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal without much fuss. If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free choice as well. Each option will give a different flavor, so pick what you enjoy. Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Just remember to reheat it gently to maintain the creamy sauce. Absolutely! You can use any pasta shape you like. Bowties, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta can work well. Just adjust the cooking time based on the pasta you choose. For the full recipe, check out the other sections. This blog post shared a detailed recipe for Savory Chicken Ranch Pasta. You learned about all the key ingredients and step-by-step instructions. I also covered tips for enhancing flavors, various ingredient swaps, and how to store leftovers. Cooking can be fun and easy. Feel free to make the recipe your own or adjust it to fit your needs. Enjoy every bite and share the joy with friends and family. Happy cooking!](https://themomdish.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/2a69ebb2-818d-4569-ad9d-850a8edc6b9b-300x300.webp)