Description
Craving something creamy, comforting, and full of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen? This Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta is the perfect easy dinner idea. A quick weeknight meal that combines tender chicken breast, Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning, and a rich cream sauce clinging to spiral pasta — all made in one skillet. Ideal for those hunting healthy-ish comfort food, quick dinner recipes, or creamy pasta food ideas that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
2 cups uncooked rotini pasta
2 ½ cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 packet Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning mix
½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Season sliced chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
2. Add chicken to the skillet and sauté until golden and fully cooked, about 5–7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, pour in uncooked rotini and chicken broth. Stir well to scrape any browned bits from the bottom.
4. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and most liquid is absorbed.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning. Simmer uncovered for 3–5 minutes to blend flavors and thicken the sauce.
6. Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add parmesan cheese and stir until melted and well incorporated.
7. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly shredded parmesan for smoother melting and better flavor.
Cooking the pasta directly in the broth enhances flavor and cuts down on cleanup.
For a touch of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes into the sauce during the simmer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1¼ cups
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: ranch chicken pasta, creamy pasta dinner, easy dinner recipe, one pan meal