One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta

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Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory ranch flavor, this One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that comes together effortlessly. Juicy ground chicken is browned and simmered in a rich cheddar cheese sauce spiked with ranch seasoning, then tossed with tender penne pasta—all cooked in one skillet. The result is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a casual family dinner.

What makes this pasta dish so special is its convenience without sacrificing flavor. With everything cooked in one pot, there’s minimal cleanup, and the flavors meld beautifully as the pasta soaks up the cheesy ranch-infused sauce. It’s indulgent yet approachable, and always a crowd-pleaser.

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Ingredients for One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta

• 1 lb ground chicken (or substitute with ground beef or turkey)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for creaminess)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 8 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
• 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

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Step 1: Brown the Ground Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground chicken and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Once browned, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

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Step 2: Add Seasoning and Liquids

Sprinkle the ranch seasoning over the chicken and mix thoroughly to coat the meat. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

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Step 3: Add the Pasta

Stir in the uncooked penne pasta. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the pasta cook for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The pasta should be tender and most of the liquid absorbed by the time it’s done.

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Step 4: Make it Creamy

Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and blended into the sauce. Add the shredded cheddar cheese gradually, stirring until melted and smooth. The sauce should now be thick, creamy, and cheesy.

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Step 5: Season and Garnish

Taste the pasta and season with additional salt and black pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it slightly with a splash of milk or broth. For a touch of freshness, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers of One-Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta store beautifully and reheat well. Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To reheat, add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, or reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.

For freezing, transfer cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating as above. Note that the sauce may separate slightly after freezing, but stirring in a bit of cream cheese while reheating can restore creaminess.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 5g

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can I use instead of ground chicken?

You can substitute ground turkey, beef, or even shredded rotisserie chicken.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes! Skip the meat and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a flavorful vegetarian twist.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Any short pasta like rotini, shells, or rigatoni works well.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your ranch mix is gluten-free.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

Let the pasta simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or add a bit more cream cheese.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar is classic, but a mix of mozzarella and Colby jack also melts beautifully.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Cook the dish, cool it, and store as noted. Reheat with a splash of liquid for best texture.

What’s a good side dish for this meal?

Serve with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.

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