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Creamy Chicken Ranch Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

This creamy chicken ranch pasta combines tender chicken, savory turkey ham, and a rich ranch-infused sauce for a comforting weeknight dinner. The dish features perfectly coated pasta strands in a decadent sauce that's surprisingly simple to prepare.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb penne or fusilli pasta
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 6 oz turkey ham, diced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add cubed chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add diced turkey ham and cook until slightly crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Reduce heat to medium and pour in heavy cream. Whisk in ranch seasoning until well combined. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Stir in shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce has thickened slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and onion powder to taste.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

For creamiest results, use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded cheese. Don't overcook the sauce - once cheese melts and sauce coats the back of a spoon, it's ready. Add smoked paprika or hot sauce for extra flavor.