Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Easy Family Dinner

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Looking for a simple, satisfying dinner that your whole family will love? This Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta recipe is just what you need. It combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and cheesy goodness—all in one pot! With easy steps and everyday ingredients, you’ll have dinner on the table in no time. Let’s dive in and create a meal that pleases everyone’s taste buds!

Why I Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
2. One-Pan Wonder: With minimal cleanup, you can cook the pasta, chicken, and sauce all in one skillet.
3. Family Friendly: The creamy ranch flavor and cheesy goodness make it a hit with both kids and adults.
4. Customizable: You can easily swap out the veggies or protein to suit your family’s preferences!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 8 ounces fusilli pasta

– 2 cups broccoli florets

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Seasoning and Extras

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. The pasta gives this dish its base. Fusilli holds sauce well, making it perfect for creamy dishes. Broccoli adds color and nutrition. Chicken is the main protein. Heavy cream makes the sauce rich. Cheddar cheese brings flavor and creaminess.

For seasoning, olive oil helps cook the chicken. Garlic and onion powders add depth to the taste. Ranch seasoning mix gives a fun flavor twist. Use fresh parsley for a bright finish.

Make sure to have salt and pepper ready to adjust the taste. Once you have all these items, you’re set for a great family dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta and Broccoli

– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

– Add 8 ounces of fusilli pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.

– In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add 2 cups of broccoli florets to the pot.

– Drain the pasta and broccoli, then set aside.

Preparing the Chicken

– Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

– Add 1 pound of diced boneless, skinless chicken breasts to the skillet.

– Season with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning mix, salt, and pepper.

– Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir occasionally until it’s no longer pink.

Creating the Sauce

– Reduce the heat to low. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring to mix.

– Allow the cream to heat for about 2 minutes.

– Gradually add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.

Combining Ingredients

– Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the chicken and sauce.

– Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy ranch sauce.

– Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed before serving.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting Your Pasta

To cook pasta al dente, follow these steps:

– Use a large pot with plenty of water.

– Salt the water well; it helps flavor the pasta.

– Check the cooking time on the package.

– Taste a piece a minute before the time is up.

To prevent pasta from sticking:

– Stir the pasta during the first few minutes.

– Do not rinse it after draining.

– Toss it with a bit of oil if needed.

Enhancing Flavor

For added flavor, consider these pantry staples:

– Grated Parmesan cheese.

– Crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

– Fresh garlic for more depth.

If you want to substitute ranch seasoning:

– Use a mix of dried herbs like dill and parsley.

– Try a blend of garlic powder and onion powder.

– Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.

Presentation Tips

Garnishing with parsley adds color and freshness.

– Chop fresh parsley finely and sprinkle on top.

– Use a small amount for a clean look.

For serving suggestions, pair the pasta with:

– A simple green salad for crunch.

– Garlic bread to soak up sauce.

– Sliced fruit for a light dessert.

Variations

Protein Substitutes

If you want to switch up the protein, there are great options. You can use turkey instead of chicken. Just dice it like you would the chicken. For a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or tofu. Both add protein and soak up the sauce well.

Dairy Alternatives

To make this dish dairy-free, try using plant-based creams. Almond or coconut cream works great. You can also use vegan cheeses. They melt nicely and keep the dish creamy. To lighten it up, reduce the heavy cream by half. This keeps the flavor without all the calories.

Flavor Variations

Adding more veggies is a fun way to change this dish. Try bell peppers, spinach, or even peas. They add color and nutrition. If you like heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes. This will give the dish a nice kick. Adjust the amount to how spicy you like it.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

Store your Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh for later. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure it cools down before sealing the container. For best taste, eat it within that time frame.

To keep the pasta fresh, don’t mix it with the sauce if you plan to store it. Keeping them separate helps the pasta stay firm. If you mix them, the pasta can soak up too much sauce and become mushy.

Reheating Tips

When you want to reheat your pasta, use the microwave or stovetop. If using the microwave, put a damp paper towel over the dish. This keeps moisture in and heats it evenly. Heat in short bursts, stirring often.

If reheating on the stove, add a splash of milk or cream. This helps to loosen the sauce. Stir gently to avoid the sauce separating from the pasta. Heat it until hot but not boiling.

Freezing Recommendations

To freeze your dish, let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container. You can also use freezer bags for easy storage. Press out as much air as you can before sealing.

For the best thawing, place it in the fridge overnight. This keeps the texture nice. If you need it fast, you can also thaw in the microwave. Just be careful to stir often to prevent hot spots.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken is cooked?

You can tell if the chicken is cooked by checking its color and texture. The chicken should be white or light brown, with no pink inside. The juices should run clear when you cut into it. You can also use a meat thermometer. The safe internal temperature for chicken is 165°F.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Cook the pasta and broccoli, then store them in the fridge. You can also cook the chicken in advance. Keep the chicken in an airtight container. When you are ready to cook, mix everything together and heat it up.

What can I use instead of ranch seasoning?

If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can use other blends. Try Italian seasoning for a fresh taste. You can mix garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs for a similar flavor. Another option is to use taco seasoning for a fun twist.

How can I make this dish healthier?

You can make this dish healthier by using whole wheat pasta. It adds fiber and nutrients. Consider using less cream or a lighter version. You can also add more vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, to boost the nutrients.

This recipe gives you a tasty dish with fusilli, broccoli, and chicken. You now know how to cook the pasta, prepare the chicken, and make a creamy sauce. Keep your dish flavorful and fresh with our tips. Don’t hesitate to try variations to suit your taste. Remember, you can use different proteins and cheeses. Storing the leftovers will keep your meal ready for later. Enjoy your cooking journey and impress your family with this easy recip

Creamy Ranch Chicken & Broccoli Pasta

A delicious and creamy pasta dish with chicken and broccoli, flavored with ranch seasoning.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 8 ounces fusilli pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

 

• Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fusilli pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.
• Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes or until it's no longer pink and cooked through.
• Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, then pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the cream to heat through for about 2 minutes. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.
• Combine: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy ranch sauce. Adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper if needed.
• Serve: Remove from heat and let it sit for a minute before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

Garnish with fresh parsley for added flavor.

Keyword broccoli, chicken, creamy, pasta, ranch