Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet
This one-skillet Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta is a quick and comforting dinner packed with flavor. Juicy chicken, tender broccoli, and pasta are coated in a creamy, cheesy ranch sauce that makes every bite delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, this meal is ready in under 30 minutes and is sure to be a family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Chicken & Pasta:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work best)
3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen, chopped into small pieces)
For the Creamy Ranch Cheese Sauce:
2 tablespoon of olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2% preferred)
½ cup chicken broth (for extra flavor, optional)
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or 3 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning)
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional, for extra richness)
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
Total Time: 25-30 minutes (Prep: 10 min | Cook: 15-20 min)
Step 1: Cook the Pasta & Broccoli
1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water.
3. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
4. While pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add chicken pieces, season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
6. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheesy Ranch Sauce
7. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.
8. Add garlic and saute for 30 seconds until fragrant.
9. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
10. Slowly whisk in milk and chicken broth, stirring until smooth.
11. Add the ranch seasoning mix and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine Everything
12. Reduce heat to low and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
13. Add back the chicken, pasta, and broccoli, tossing to coat everything in the sauce.
14. Cook for 1-2 minutes, just until heated through.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
15. Garnish with extra cheese, fresh parsley, or crispy bacon bits if desired.
16. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
Calories: 450 kcal
Protein: 35g
Carbs: 45g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 700mg
(Nutrition varies based on ingredients and portion sizes.)
Notes & Tips
Want extra flavor? Stir in crumbled bacon or a dash of hot sauce.
Make it lighter: Use Greek yogurt or reduced-fat cheese instead of heavy dairy.
Prefer a one-pot meal? Cook the pasta directly in the sauce, adding an extra ½ cup broth.
Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on low with a splash of milk.