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Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.1 from 4 reviews

This Ranch Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender seasoned chicken, fresh spinach, and juicy tomatoes tossed with al dente pasta in a rich ranch-flavored sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 8 ounces uncooked pasta

Chicken

  • 2 chicken breasts (cut in half lengthwise)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 tablespoon ranch seasoning (divided)
  • Pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 tablespoon ranch seasoning (remaining)
  • 2 medium tomatoes (chopped)
  • 2 cups packed fresh baby spinach

For Serving

  • Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional, to taste)
  • Chopped parsley (optional, to taste)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil a salted pot of water and cook the pasta until al dente, following the package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Cut each chicken breast in half lengthwise to create four thinner pieces. Season them evenly with garlic powder, 1/2 tablespoon ranch seasoning, and pepper to taste.
  3. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken pieces for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
  4. Create the roux: Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the same skillet, and melt. Stir in the flour and cook for one minute to form a roux.
  5. Add flavorings and liquids: Stir in minced garlic, then whisk in chicken broth, lemon juice, and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon ranch seasoning until the sauce is smooth.
  6. Cook the sauce with tomatoes: Add chopped tomatoes to the skillet and simmer the sauce for 3-5 minutes until slightly reduced and thickened.
  7. Slice the chicken: While the sauce simmers, cut the cooked chicken into bite-sized strips.
  8. Add spinach and combine: Stir fresh spinach into the sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Then add the sliced chicken and drained pasta, tossing everything together to coat evenly with the sauce.
  9. Serve: Plate the pasta and top with freshly grated parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • You can substitute your favorite pasta shape, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini.
  • For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half when making the sauce.
  • Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can be added for additional flavor.
  • Make sure not to overcook the pasta to maintain a firm texture that holds up well with the sauce.
  • Chicken can be grilled instead of pan-seared for a smoky flavor variation.

Find it online: https://yumntasty.com/ranch-chicken-pasta-recipe/