Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs the aroma of creamy cheese and zesty ranch wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a sense of triumph. Whipping up this Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet is not just a relief from takeout—it’s a heartwarming embrace of comfort food that brings smiles all around the table. This delightful one-pan meal takes less than 30 minutes to make, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. With tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and rotini cooked to a perfect al dente, you’ll find this dish not only satisfies your cravings but is also easily customizable to suit dietary preferences. Are you ready to discover how simple yet delicious homemade dinners can be? Let’s dive into this creamy delight together! Why Will You Love This Recipe? Simplicity at Its Best: This one-pan meal comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a weeknight hero for everyone from busy families to aspiring chefs. Creamy, Rich Flavor: The combination of cheddar and ranch seasoning lends a delightful creaminess that is utterly satisfying and comforting. Customizable Delight: Whether you’re a meat lover or prefer plant-based options, this dish adapts easily to suit your dietary needs. Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: With its vibrant colors and delicious aroma, this Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet is sure to bring smiles at the dinner table. Effortless Cleanup: Who doesn’t love a meal that requires minimal dishes? Enjoy the ease of cooking and savor every bite without the hassle! For more easy weeknight ideas, explore comfort food recipes that will please the whole family. Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet Ingredients • Discover the delightful components that make this one-pan comfort food irresistible! For the Pasta Rotini Pasta – This shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly; feel free to swap it with penne for a change. For the Chicken Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – The heart of the dish; use rotisserie chicken to save time during busy nights. For the Vegetables Broccoli Florets – Fresh or frozen, they add a vibrant color and nutrition; just make sure to drain excess moisture if using frozen. For the Flavor Ranch Seasoning Mix – A tangy twist that elevates the flavors; adjust to your preference for a milder taste. For the Sauce Chicken Broth – Gives depth to the sauce; swap it with vegetable broth for a vegetarian alternative. Heavy Cream – Ensures a rich, creamy consistency; consider using half-and-half for a lighter touch. For the Cheese Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Makes the dish extra cheesy; freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged. For Cooking Olive Oil – Adds richness while sautéing the chicken; butter is a delicious substitute if you prefer. For Seasoning Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in this comforting dish. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet Step 1: Cook the Pasta Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish, keeping it warm. Step 2: Cook the Chicken In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced boneless skinless chicken breasts, seasoning them with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through; it should have an internal temperature of 165°F. Step 3: Add Broccoli Stir in the broccoli florets to the skillet with the chicken. Allow them to cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn bright green and are slightly tender but still crisp. Use a spatula to ensure they are evenly coated with the chicken juices while cooking, which will enhance the flavor of your Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet. Step 4: Make the Sauce Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream to the skillet, then sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix. Stir gently and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken slightly, bubbling gently and developing a creamy texture. Step 5: Combine Pasta and Cheese Add the drained rotini pasta into the skillet, followed by half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce and cheese has melted beautifully into the dish. You should see a silky consistency that envelops the chicken and broccoli. Step 6: Melt Remaining Cheese Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt completely, creating an irresistible gooey topping that binds everything together in your Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet. Step 7: Serve Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the skillet from heat. It’s now time to scoop this comforting delight onto plates or into bowls. Serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra cheese for added flair, and enjoy the flavors of your delicious one-pan meal! Expert Tips for Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet Fresh Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for optimal melting. Pre-packaged cheese may clump, detracting from the creamy experience. Don’t Overcook Broccoli: Add broccoli near the end of cooking to ensure it stays bright, vibrant, and slightly crispy. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy and dull in flavor. Stir to Prevent Clumping: Stir the sauce frequently as it simmers to avoid it sticking to the bottom of the skillet. This keeps your Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet creamy and seamless. Customize Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust the ranch seasoning to suit your preference for creaminess. A little more can enhance the flavor if it’s too mild. Perfect Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain that creamy texture. What to Serve with Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet Elevate your dinner experience with delightful side dishes and drinks that complement this creamy one-pan wonder. Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy slices slathered in garlic butter provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy skillet dish, perfect for mopping up the sauce. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with tangy dressing adds a refreshing brightness; the crunchy croutons echo the dish’s hearty texture while keeping it light. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like carrots and zucchini bring a sweet, caramelized flavor, enhancing the meal with an aromatic, earthy undertone. Steamed Green Beans: Their crisp-tender bite provides a lovely contrast against the creaminess of the pasta; a sprinkle of lemon enhances their flavor beautifully. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes contrasts delightful comfort with savory flavors, enriching each bite of the pasta skillet. Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing beverage balances the rich flavors of the dish with bright, citrusy notes that’ll leave you feeling invigorated. Chocolate Mousse: For dessert, the light and airy texture of chocolate mousse offers a sweet finish to an indulgent meal, keeping the climatic flavors harmonious. Fruit Salad: A mix of fresh berries and citrus adds vibrancy and a burst of natural sweetness, lightening up the overall meal experience remarkably. Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet Variations Feel free to explore these enticing options that can elevate your dish, blending flavors and textures for a delightful twist. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra layer of heat. This spice will elevate the flavor profile, making it even more dynamic. Bacon Bliss: Incorporate crispy cooked bacon or alternative cheeses like Pepper Jack or smoked Gouda. The rich, smoky flavor complements the creaminess perfectly! Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth for a full vegetarian experience. It’s a hearty, satisfying option without sacrificing flavor. Extra Veggies: Toss in sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or any favorite vegetables for color and nutrition. The added textures create a more vibrant and wholesome dish. Lighter Creaminess: Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or coconut milk for a lighter sauce. This variation not only makes it healthier but also introduces fun new flavors! Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving for a refreshing twist on traditional flavors. The freshness brightens the dish beautifully. Cheesy Cauliflower: For a unique spin, replace half the pasta with riced cauliflower. It adds a lovely texture while keeping it comforting and lower in carbs. Zesty Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors significantly. It adds a touch of brightness that can be refreshing amid the rich cheese. For more easy ideas, check out our comfort food recipes that are just as customizable and delicious! Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet components are perfect for meal prep! You can cook the rotini pasta and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to save time during busy weeknights. Additionally, the diced chicken can be seasoned and cooked in advance, then chilled and stored for the same duration. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and pasta together with freshly added broccoli and sauce. To maintain the creamy texture and flavor, do not combine all ingredients until just before eating. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal that tastes just as fresh as if you made it that day! Storage Tips for Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing to maintain freshness. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, squeezing out excess air before sealing. Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Room Temperature: Avoid leaving the dish out for more than 2 hours, as it contains chicken and dairy, which can spoil quickly at room temperature. Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet Recipe FAQs How do I choose ripe broccoli for this recipe? Look for broccoli florets that are bright green with tightly closed buds. Avoid any that have yellowing or dark spots, as these are signs of aging. Fresh broccoli should feel firm and have a vibrant color—this ensures you get the best flavor and nutrition for your Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet! What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it tasting fresh, allow the skillet to cool to room temperature before sealing it up. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore its creaminess when serving. Can I freeze this pasta skillet? Absolutely! You can freeze the Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet for up to 2 months. To do this, let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remember to squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove. What if my sauce turns out too thick? If your sauce is thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply add a little chicken broth or heavy cream, a splash at a time, while stirring gently over low heat. This will help restore that creamy texture, making your Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet delightful again. Is this recipe suitable for people with dairy allergies? To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream and cheese with plant-based alternatives, such as almond milk or cashew cream and dairy-free cheese. Additionally, be sure to use a dairy-free ranch seasoning if needed. With these substitutions, everyone can enjoy a delicious version of this comforting meal. Can pets eat the leftovers? While the ingredients used in the Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet are generally safe for most pets, it’s best to avoid sharing with them as the ranch seasoning and certain cheeses can be harmful. Always consult your veterinarian before giving any human food to your pets! Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet in 30 Minutes A creamy and comforting Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet that brings smiles to the dinner table in under 30 minutes. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 20 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pasta8 ounces Rotini Pasta or penne for a changeFor the Chicken1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts can use rotisserie chickenFor the Vegetables2 cups Broccoli Florets fresh or frozen, drain excess moisture if frozenFor the Flavor1 packet Ranch Seasoning Mix adjust to preferenceFor the Sauce1 cup Chicken Broth can swap with vegetable broth for vegetarian1 cup Heavy Cream or half-and-half for a lighter touchFor the Cheese2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese freshly shredded melts betterFor Cooking1 tablespoon Olive Oil butter is a delicious substituteFor Seasoningto taste Saltto taste Pepper Equipment Large potcolanderLarge skilletSpatula Method Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain and set aside.Cook the Chicken: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken breasts, season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, until browned and cooked through.Add Broccoli: Stir in broccoli florets into the skillet with the chicken, cooking for 2-3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.Make the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then sprinkle ranch seasoning. Stir and bring to a simmer, cooking for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add drained rotini and half of the cheddar cheese, stirring until pasta is coated and cheese melts.Melt Remaining Cheese: Sprinkle remaining cheese on top, cover skillet, reduce heat to low, and let sit for 2-3 minutes to melt cheese.Serve: Once cheese is melted, remove from heat and serve warm, optionally garnished with parsley or extra cheese. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg NotesFor best results, use freshly shredded cheese and add broccoli at the end to keep it vibrant and crispy. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
