why make this recipe
This dish cooks fast and fills your plate. It mixes chicken, broccoli, pasta, and cheese. The ranch flavor makes it tasty for kids and adults. You get protein, veggies, and carbs in one pan. It is a good weeknight meal.
introduction
This Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet is easy and creamy. You cook chicken, add broccoli and pasta, then stir in ranch, cream, and cheese. The dish is creamy and warm. For a different broccoli side, try this baked potatoes with crispy broccoli and bacon for a full meal idea.
how to make Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet
Follow simple steps to make this skillet. Cook chicken first, then add broccoli and broth. Stir in pasta and cook. Add ranch mix, cream, and cheese. Mix until smooth and heated.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb Chicken breasts, boneless skinless
- 2 cups Broccoli florets
- 1 cup Chicken broth
- 8 oz Rotini pasta
- 1 packet Ranch seasoning mix
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 cups Cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Heavy cream
Directions :
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add broccoli and chicken broth; bring to a simmer. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, add ranch seasoning mix, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese. Stir until cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
how to serve Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet
Serve this right from the skillet. Add extra cheese on top if you like. A side salad or crusty bread goes well. For another broccoli pairing, you might like this beef and broccoli recipe idea to inspire sides.
how to store Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet
Let the dish cool to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to keep it creamy. Do not freeze with cream — texture may change.
tips to make Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet
- Cut chicken into even pieces so it cooks fast and even.
- Use fresh broccoli or quick-steam frozen florets.
- Stir the pasta often so it cooks evenly in the broth.
- Use sharp cheddar for stronger flavor.
- If sauce is too thick, add a little extra chicken broth or cream.
variation (if any)
- Add cooked bacon for a smoky taste.
- Swap rotini for penne, shells, or macaroni.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for lighter sauce.
- Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
FAQs
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken?
A: Yes. Add shredded rotisserie chicken in step 3. Skip the initial chicken cooking.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes. Use gluten-free pasta and check the ranch mix for gluten-free label.
Q: How do I make it less creamy?
A: Use less heavy cream or replace part with extra chicken broth.
Q: Can I add more vegetables?
A: Yes. Stir in peas, spinach, or bell peppers when you add the broccoli.
Conclusion
If you like this skillet, you may also enjoy a similar twist with bacon in the One-Pot Cheesy Bacon Ranch Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli: One-Pot Cheesy Bacon Ranch Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli.
Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper, and cook until no longer pink. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add broccoli and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
- Add rotini pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, add ranch seasoning mix, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese.
- Stir until cheese is melted and everything is well combined.
- Serve warm and enjoy! Add extra cheese on top if desired.