Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta

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Creamy, cheesy, and absolutely loaded with flavor, Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta is the weeknight dinner you didn’t know you needed. It’s a beautiful combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a velvety ranch-seasoned sauce that clings to every bite. One forkful in, and you’ll wonder how something this comforting could be so simple to make.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this dish delivers in both taste and convenience. With just a few pantry staples and one skillet, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in under 30 minutes. And yes, it tastes even better as leftovers the next day.

Why You’ll Love This Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta

This pasta dish hits all the right notes: it’s quick, creamy, and irresistibly flavorful. The ranch seasoning adds a familiar tang, while the melted cheese and tender chicken bring comfort food vibes to every forkful. It’s kid-friendly, budget-friendly, and endlessly versatile.

You can switch up the pasta shape, toss in veggies like spinach or peas, or even use leftover rotisserie chicken to speed things up. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish—hello, easy cleanup!

What Kind of Chicken Works Best for Ranch Pasta?

You have options here, and that’s part of what makes this recipe so adaptable. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a lean and classic choice, cooking up quickly and absorbing flavor beautifully. Chicken thighs add a richer, juicier texture if you prefer something more indulgent.

If you’re really pressed for time, cooked shredded chicken or even canned chicken can step in and save the day. Just be sure to season accordingly and adjust the cook time to heat everything through gently without overcooking.

Ingredients for the Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta

What makes this dish such a standout is its simplicity. You don’t need anything fancy, just everyday ingredients that come together in the most delicious way. The ranch seasoning is the star here, giving the creamy sauce that signature herby tang, while the chicken and cheese create a satisfying base.

• Pasta
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning mix
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Garlic
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

How To Make the Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a pot of salted water and cook your pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water just in case you want to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Whisk in the Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning until well combined. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and allow it to melt into the sauce, stirring gently until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in the creamy ranch sauce. If it looks too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Serve

Dish it out warm, topped with extra cheese or chopped parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Serve immediately and watch it disappear.

How to Serve and Store Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta

This creamy pasta is best served hot straight from the skillet, but it also stores incredibly well. It makes four generous servings, making it ideal for a cozy family dinner or a round of meal prep lunches.

If you’re storing leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce and stir well as it warms. A quick reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave works perfectly.

Freezing is also an option, though the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly. To freeze, portion it into individual servings and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta?

Garlic Bread

The buttery crunch of garlic bread makes the perfect companion to this creamy pasta. It helps scoop up every last bit of sauce.

Roasted Broccoli

Add some color and crunch with oven-roasted broccoli tossed in olive oil, salt, and pepper. The roasted edges bring a delicious contrast to the creaminess of the pasta.

Garden Salad

A crisp salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish and adds a refreshing touch.

Sautéed Spinach

Quickly wilted spinach in garlic and olive oil offers a nutritious side that doesn’t overpower the main event.

Grilled Asparagus

Simple, smoky grilled asparagus makes for an elegant pairing and adds a bit of texture.

Fresh Fruit Salad

A medley of berries, melons, and citrus brightens up your plate and adds a naturally sweet counterbalance.

Parmesan Green Beans

Green beans tossed with parmesan and garlic offer a crisp and cheesy contrast to the soft pasta.

Buttery Peas

Steamed peas with a pat of butter and pinch of salt are quick, easy, and always a hit with creamy pasta dishes.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta, here are more creamy, satisfying pasta dishes to check out next:

• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for a rich and cheesy pasta experience.
• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni if you want to explore another creamy favorite with a meaty twist.
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta for a little spicy kick in your creamy pasta rotation.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli if you’re looking for a meatless option with bold umami flavor.
• Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken when you’re in the mood for something chilled and bright.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add bacon? Maybe a handful of spinach? Did you try a different cheese?

I love seeing how others put their own spin on these comfort food classics. Questions and suggestions are always welcome!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting dinners on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for cozy weeknight meals.

Conclusion

Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta is one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. It’s quick, satisfying, and made with ingredients you probably already have on hand. With its rich and creamy texture and the bold zing of ranch seasoning, it’s guaranteed to become a household favorite.

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