Description
This creamy Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese combines tender bite-sized chicken pieces with a rich, cheesy ranch sauce and perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. A flavorful, comforting dish that’s quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Chicken
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Boil the Pasta: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil on the stove. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces, add to the skillet, and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and no longer pink. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Make the Roux: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until the mixture turns slightly golden, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Create the Sauce: Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to create a smooth base. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and paprika. Mix until evenly combined.
- Melt the Cheese: Add shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the sauce, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine All Ingredients: Add the cooked macaroni and chicken to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly.
- Heat Through: Continue cooking for 2-3 more minutes, stirring occasionally to heat the dish thoroughly.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your creamy Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Feel free to substitute chicken with turkey or omit for a vegetarian version (add vegetables instead).
- If sauce is too thick, add a splash more milk to reach desired consistency.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on stovetop or microwave.
