Go Back
simplegoodfood's avatarsimplegoodfood

Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta

This easy Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta comes together in about 30 minutes and is the perfect comfort food after a day of camping adventures.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 495
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked chicken diced or shredded
  • 8 ounces rotini or penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup milk
  • 4 ounces reduced-fat cream cheese softened
  • 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish optional

Method
 

  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the chicken broth, milk, cream cheese, ranch seasoning, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until smooth.
  5. Add the cooked chicken and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
  6. Stir in the cooked pasta.
  7. Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and creamy.
  8. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Easy Substitutions
  • Chicken: Leftover grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or turkey all work well.
  • Pasta: Penne, rotini, shells, or bow ties can be used interchangeably.
  • Cheese: Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or mozzarella can replace cheddar.
  • Milk: Evaporated milk makes an extra creamy sauce and stores well in the pantry until opened.
Cream Cheese: Neufchâtel cheese is a lighter substitute with a similar texture.
Serving Suggestions
  • Garlic bread
  • Steamed broccoli
  • Green beans
  • Garden salad
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Fresh fruit for dessert
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently with a splash of milk to restore the creamy texture.
🥪 Leftover Lunch Idea
Warm leftovers for an easy lunch, or spoon the creamy chicken pasta into a tortilla, sprinkle with a little extra cheddar, and toast it in a skillet for a crispy chicken ranch wrap.