If you are craving a creamy, utterly comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you absolutely must try this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe. Packed with tender ranch-seasoned chicken, a dreamy cheese sauce bursting with flavor, and crispy bacon for that perfect crunch, this dish takes classic macaroni and cheese to a whole new level. Every bite brings together juicy chicken, rich cheese, and a hint of ranch spice, making it irresistibly satisfying whether for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element is essential for building layers of flavor, creamy texture, and mouthwatering color in the final dish.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to a juicy golden finish without overpowering the flavors.
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes: Tender protein that soaks up the ranch seasoning beautifully for a flavorful punch.
- 1 package (about 2 tablespoons) dry ranch seasoning: The secret ingredient that infuses the chicken and sauce with that classic tangy ranch taste.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the creamy cheese sauce, adding depth and velvety texture.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the cheese sauce into a luscious coating for the pasta.
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk, warmed: Adds creaminess and smoothness to the sauce, ensuring it clings perfectly to every noodle.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the richness of the cheese and chicken.
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a hint of savory warmth without overwhelming the ranch flavors.
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning: A second boost of ranch seasoning to deepen the sauce’s delicious tang.
- 1/2 cup white cheddar cheese, freshly grated: Provides sharp, creamy flavor that melts beautifully into the sauce.
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated: Brings extra gooeyness and creaminess for the perfect cheese pull.
- 8 ounces (2 cups uncooked) elbow macaroni, cooked al dente and drained: The classic pasta shape that holds onto the cheese sauce magnificently.
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds irresistible salty crunch and smoky notes to contrast the creamy sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Fine-tunes the seasoning for a perfectly balanced dish.
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, colorful finishing touch that adds a slight herbal lift.
How to Make Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by placing the cubed chicken into a large mixing bowl and tossing it thoroughly with the dry ranch seasoning. This step is key to ensuring every bite of chicken bursts with that unmistakable ranch flavor and sets the stage for the whole dish.
Step 2: Cook the Ranch Chicken
Warm up the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it starts to shimmer, then add the chicken pieces in batches. Cook each side for 1-2 minutes until they’re beautifully golden and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken and tent it with foil—this keeps the meat juicy and tender, ready to join the cheesy goodness.
Step 3: Prepare the Skillet
Before making the cheese sauce, wipe the skillet clean with a paper towel to remove any leftover bits from the chicken. This ensures your sauce starts with a clean pan and prevents any burnt bits from altering the flavor.
Step 4: Make the Roux
Melt the butter in the skillet over medium heat, then whisk in the flour continuously for 1-2 minutes. This cooking process cooks out the raw flour taste and forms a smooth base, turning a light golden color as it bubbles gently.
Step 5: Add Warm Milk
Remove the pan from heat and gradually pour in the warmed milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. This technique guarantees a silky smooth sauce that will coat your macaroni perfectly.
Step 6: Thicken the Sauce
Return the skillet to medium heat and continue whisking for 3-5 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce begins to thicken and turn luxuriously creamy, the perfect consistency for indulgent macaroni and cheese.
Step 7: Flavor the Sauce
Stir in salt, garlic powder, and the remaining dry ranch seasoning to infuse the sauce with that signature tang and savory warmth. Remove the pan from heat to prevent scorching as you prepare to add the cheeses.
Step 8: Melt in the Cheese
While the sauce is off the heat, add the white cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir gently until the cheeses melt fully into a smooth, velvety sauce that’s rich and irresistibly cheesy.
Step 9: Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked elbow macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until every noodle is luxuriously coated. This step is where everything starts to come together into a creamy comfort food masterpiece.
Step 10: Assemble and Serve
Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, then top the macaroni and cheese with the beautifully cooked ranch chicken pieces and crumbled bacon. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a subtle herbal note. Serve immediately and enjoy the ultimate Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe experience.
How to Serve Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like freshly chopped parsley adds a fresh burst of color that brightens the plate and balances the richness of this hearty dish. The parsley also offers a hint of herbal freshness that pairs wonderfully with the creamy ranch flavors.
Side Dishes
This Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or even a tangy coleslaw. The fresh and crunchy textures of these sides provide a lovely contrast to the creamy, cheesy pasta and savory chicken.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this dish in individual cast iron skillets or baking it with a crunchy breadcrumb topping. You could also turn it into a casserole by layering with extra cheese and baking until bubbly and golden. Presenting it family-style invites everyone to dig in and enjoy the cozy comfort of this crowd-pleaser.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe reheats wonderfully, making it a fantastic option for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish by placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of milk if needed to bring back the creamy consistency. Stir well and heat until warmed through, savoring that delicious, comforting flavor all over again.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta shapes for this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe?
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is traditional, feel free to use shells, cavatappi, or even penne. Just make sure to cook them al dente so they hold up well under the rich sauce.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can skip the chicken and bacon and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms, roasted bell peppers, or even extra cheese. Using veggie bacon or tempeh bacon can also maintain that smoky crunch.
How spicy is the ranch seasoning in this dish?
The ranch seasoning provides a mild tangy and herby flavor without significant heat. If you prefer a little spice, you can add a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper to the cheese sauce for a gentle kick.
Can I prepare this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can make the sauce and cook the chicken separately ahead of time, then combine and bake or reheat when ready to serve. Just keep the pasta cooked al dente and refrigerate components separately for best results.
What type of cheese works best in this recipe?
White cheddar and mozzarella cheeses are ideal for their meltability and flavor balance. White cheddar offers sharp richness while mozzarella brings incredible creaminess—together they create the perfect cheesy sauce.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe that keeps everyone coming back for more. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with comforting goodness that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or indulging in a cozy solo night in, this dish is a guaranteed win. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite on your dinner rotation!
Print
Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese recipe combines tender, ranch-seasoned chicken with creamy, cheesy macaroni for a comforting and flavorful dish. Enhanced with crispy bacon and fresh parsley, it’s a perfect family-friendly meal that comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 package (about 2 tablespoons) dry ranch seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Cheese Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning
- 1/2 cup white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1/4 cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
Pasta and Toppings
- 8 ounces (2 cups uncooked) elbow macaroni, cooked al dente and drained
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: In a large mixing bowl, add the cubed chicken and ranch seasoning. Toss thoroughly to ensure each piece is evenly coated.
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the chicken in batches. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove the chicken from the skillet and tent with foil to keep warm.
- Prepare the skillet: Wipe out the skillet with a paper towel to remove any remaining bits, prepping it for the macaroni and cheese sauce.
- Make the roux: Melt butter in the cleaned skillet over medium heat. Add the flour and constantly whisk for 1-2 minutes, until the mixture turns light brown and bubbles softly, ensuring the raw flour taste cooks off.
- Add milk: Remove skillet from the heat. Gradually pour in warmed milk, whisking continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
- Thicken sauce: Return the skillet to medium heat and whisk for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Season the sauce: Add salt, garlic powder, and dry ranch seasoning to the sauce. Stir to combine, then remove the skillet from the heat to avoid scorching.
- Add cheese: While off the heat, add the white cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Stir until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and cheesy.
- Combine with pasta: Add the drained, cooked elbow macaroni to the sauce. Stir to evenly coat the noodles in the cheese sauce.
- Assemble and serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Top the macaroni and cheese with cooked ranch chicken pieces, crumbled bacon, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- Ensure the macaroni is cooked al dente to hold texture well in the creamy sauce.
- Warming the milk before adding it to the roux helps prevent lumps in the cheese sauce.
- Cooking chicken in batches prevents overcrowding, ensuring it browns evenly.
- Use freshly grated cheese for better melting and richer flavor.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
