Description
This Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet is a creamy, flavorful one-pot meal made with shredded chicken, tangy ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and tender broccoli. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes and packed with bold, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups shredded chicken, cooked
- 1 package (1 oz.) dry ranch seasoning mix
- 8 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
- 3 ½ cups chicken broth
- 4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
- 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine shredded chicken with dry ranch seasoning and set aside.
- In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, add chicken broth, penne pasta, and the seasoned chicken. Stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes until pasta is tender.
- Add cream cheese and stir until mostly melted into the pasta.
- Stir in bacon and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm
Notes
- Adjust ranch seasoning – Start with ½ packet if you prefer a milder flavor.
- Use rotisserie chicken for an easy shortcut.
- For a thicker sauce, add a bit more cheese; for a looser sauce, stir in a splash of milk or broth.
- Add steamed broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat with a little milk to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pot / Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg