This creamy, hearty, and decadent Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta is a simple yet delectable dish that will impress your family and friends. It's a perfect weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, succulent pasta, and creamy cheese sauce, infused with a hint of ranch flavor. This comforting dish promises to take your taste buds on a delightful journey.
The ingredients for this recipe are fairly common in most households. However, the ranch dressing mix and cheese sauce might need a special trip to the supermarket. The ranch dressing mix offers a unique tangy, herby flavor that beautifully complements the creaminess of the dish. As for the cheese sauce, it adds a velvety texture and rich taste that elevates the dish.
Ingredients for Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
Chicken breasts: The main protein source, their mild flavor perfectly absorbs the sauce's richness.
Chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth of flavor to the dish.
Condensed cream of chicken soup: Gives a creamy consistency and enhances the chicken flavor.
Evaporated milk: Adds creaminess to the sauce without the excess fat.
Butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor.
Ranch dressing mix: Provides a burst of tangy, herby flavor.
Onion powder: Adds a subtle savory essence.
Rotini pasta: Its spiral shape helps to hold onto the sauce better.
Bacon: Gives a smoky, salty crunch.
Mild cheddar cheese: Has a creamy, slightly tangy taste.
Cheese sauce: Adds velvety, rich flavor and texture to the pasta.
One reader, Chris Kelleher says:
This cheesy ranch chicken pasta recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are so rich and comforting. The combination of ranch, cheddar, and bacon is simply divine. It's a family favorite and always a hit at gatherings. Plus, it's easy to make, which is a huge bonus. Highly recommended!
Key Techniques for Mastering Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta
How to cook chicken in a pressure cooker: This technique involves cooking the chicken in a pressure cooker with a combination of chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, butter, ranch dressing mix, and onion powder.
How to shred chicken: After cooking the chicken, it needs to be shredded before being returned to the pot. Shredding can be done using two forks or a stand mixer.
How to cook pasta in a pressure cooker: This technique involves adding the pasta, remaining chicken broth, and bacon to the pressure cooker and cooking it under high pressure for a specific amount of time.
How to release pressure from a pressure cooker: After the cooking process, the pressure needs to be carefully released using the quick-release method according to the manufacturer's instructions.
How to stir in cheese and cheese sauce: Once the pressure is released, the shredded mild cheddar cheese and cheese sauce need to be stirred into the pasta and chicken mixture until well combined.
How To Make Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta
If you’re craving ranch chicken pasta, check out this easy recipe. Start with some chicken, when that’s done add pasta and other ingredients.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2frozen chicken breasts,or more to taste, skinless boneless
- 32ozchicken broth,divided
- 10¾ozcondensed cream of chicken soup
- 12fl ozevaporated milk
- 2tbspbutter
- 1ozranch dressing mix
- 2tsponion powder
- 16ozrotini pasta
- 7bacon slices,cooked, crumbled
- 2cupsmild cheddar cheese,shredded
- 4ozcheese sauce,such as Velveeta®
Instructions
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Place chicken breasts in a multi-functional electric pressure cooker and add 2 cups chicken broth, cream of chicken soup, milk, butter, ranch dressing mix, and onion powder.
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Close and lock the lid. Select the Poultry setting according to manufacturer’s instructions; set timer for 25 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.
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Release pressure carefully using the quick-release method according to manufacturer’s instructions, about 5 minutes. Unlock and remove the lid.
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Transfer chicken to a cutting board using a slotted spoon. Shred chicken and return to the pot. Add rotini, remaining chicken broth, and bacon.
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Close and lock the lid. Select the high-pressure setting according to manufacturer’s instructions; set timer for 5 minutes. Allow 10 to 15 minutes for pressure to build.
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Release pressure carefully using the quick-release method according to the manufacturer’s instructions for about 5 minutes. Unlock and remove the lid.
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Stir in shredded mild Cheddar cheese and cheese sauce until well combined.
Nutrition
- Calories: 758.79kcal
- Fat: 41.93g
- Saturated Fat: 18.99g
- Trans Fat: 0.75g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.68g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.82g
- Carbohydrates: 55.61g
- Fiber: 1.91g
- Sugar: 8.98g
- Protein: 38.09g
- Cholesterol: 122.86mg
- Sodium: 984.16mg
- Calcium: 471.85mg
- Potassium: 597.60mg
- Iron: 2.02mg
- Vitamin A: 209.88µg
- Vitamin C: 1.30mg
Expert Technique Tip for Elevating Your Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta
To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection in your pressure cooker, it's important to let the pressure naturally release for a few minutes before using the quick-release method. This allows the chicken to finish cooking in the residual heat and helps to keep it tender and juicy. Also, when adding the pasta, make sure to submerge it fully in the liquid to ensure even cooking.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables, measure ingredients, and marinate the chicken the night before to save time during the cooking process.
One-pot cooking: Opt for one-pot recipes to minimize clean-up and save time on washing multiple dishes.
Use kitchen gadgets: Utilize kitchen gadgets such as a food processor or electric pressure cooker to streamline the cooking process.
Batch cooking: Prepare larger quantities of the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals in the future.
Organize ingredients: Arrange all ingredients and equipment in an organized manner before starting to cook to avoid last-minute searches and confusion.
Efficient multitasking: Plan and execute tasks in parallel, such as chopping vegetables while the chicken is cooking, to save time in the kitchen.
Pre-cut ingredients: Purchase pre-cut vegetables or pre-cooked chicken to minimize prep time and simplify the cooking process.
Follow the recipe: Read the recipe thoroughly and understand the steps before starting to cook to avoid mistakes and save time on corrections.
Clean as you go: Wash and put away utensils and dishes while cooking to maintain a tidy kitchen and reduce post-cooking clean-up time.
Time management: Practice time management by setting timers for different cooking stages to ensure efficient use of time and prevent overcooking.
Substitute Ingredients For Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
Chicken breasts - Substitute with turkey breasts: Turkey breasts can be used as a lean and flavorful alternative to chicken breasts in this recipe, providing a similar texture and taste.
Chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth to make the dish vegetarian-friendly while still adding depth of flavor.
Condensed cream of chicken soup - Substitute with condensed cream of mushroom soup: This substitution can add a rich and creamy texture to the dish while offering a different flavor profile.
Evaporated milk - Substitute with half-and-half: Half-and-half can be used as a substitute for evaporated milk to provide a creamy texture and richness to the dish.
Ranch dressing mix - Substitute with homemade ranch seasoning: Making a homemade ranch seasoning allows for better control of the ingredients and can enhance the flavor of the dish.
Rotini pasta - Substitute with penne pasta: Penne pasta can be used as a substitute for rotini, offering a similar shape and texture, which holds the sauce well.
Bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon can be used as a leaner alternative to traditional bacon, providing a smoky flavor and crispy texture.
Mild cheddar cheese - Substitute with monterey jack cheese: Monterey Jack cheese can be used as a substitute for mild cheddar, offering a creamy texture and a milder flavor.
Cheese sauce - Substitute with béchamel sauce with cheese: Béchamel sauce with cheese can be used as a substitute for cheese sauce, providing a creamy and rich base for the dish.
Presentation Tips for a Delightful Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta
Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating an elegant and visually appealing arrangement. Use clean lines and carefully place the components to showcase the different elements of the dish.
Incorporate contrasting colors and textures: Introduce vibrant elements such as fresh herbs or microgreens to add a pop of color to the dish. Additionally, consider incorporating crunchy elements like toasted breadcrumbs or crispy bacon to provide textural contrast.
Utilize garnishes strategically: Enhance the visual appeal of the dish by incorporating edible garnishes such as delicate herb leaves or edible flowers. These garnishes should complement the flavors of the dish and add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay attention to the placement of each component on the plate, ensuring that the presentation is meticulous and well-balanced. Precision in plating demonstrates attention to detail and elevates the overall dining experience.
Consider the vessel: Select a sophisticated and complementary vessel for serving the dish. Whether it's a sleek, modern plate or a classic, timeless bowl, the vessel should enhance the presentation and create a memorable visual impact.
Highlight the star ingredient: Showcase the cheesy ranch chicken pasta as the focal point of the presentation. Arrange the pasta and chicken in a visually appealing manner to draw attention to the main components of the dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a drizzle of cheese sauce or a swirl of ranch dressing to add artistic flair to the presentation. The drizzling technique should be purposeful and add an element of finesse to the overall plating.
Emphasize symmetry and balance: Strive for symmetry and balance in the plating arrangement. Create a visually harmonious presentation by arranging the components in a balanced and aesthetically pleasing manner.
Consider negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the dish to stand out. Thoughtful use of empty space can draw attention to the central elements and create a visually striking presentation.
Final touch with a sprinkle of finesse: Before serving, add a final touch of finesse by delicately sprinkling a garnish, such as freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a pinch of finely chopped herbs, to elevate the visual appeal of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta
Multi-functional electric pressure cooker (such as instant pot®): A versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for pressure cooking, slow cooking, sautéing, and more. It's great for making one-pot meals and tenderizing meats in a fraction of the time.
Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients. It helps protect countertops and keeps the knife sharp.
Slotted spoon: A spoon with slots or openings that allow liquids to drain away, making it ideal for retrieving solid foods from liquids or sauces.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly and efficiently processing large quantities of food.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients, mixing batters, and preparing various components of a dish. It comes in different sizes and materials.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients. It's great for incorporating air into mixtures and creating smooth textures.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential tools for accurately measuring dry and liquid ingredients in cooking and baking.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose kitchen knife used for slicing, dicing, and chopping a wide variety of ingredients.
Instant-read thermometer: A thermometer used to quickly and accurately measure the internal temperature of foods, ensuring they are cooked to the proper doneness.
Grater: A kitchen tool used for grating cheese, vegetables, and other ingredients. It comes in various sizes and styles for different grating needs.
Stovetop: The cooking surface where pots, pans, and other cookware are placed for heating and cooking food. It can be gas, electric, or induction.
Storing and Freezing Guidelines for Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta
- Allow the cheesy ranch chicken pasta to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the pasta:
- Divide the cooled pasta into individual serving-sized portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags.
- Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, where they will keep for up to 2-3 months.
- To reheat the frozen cheesy ranch chicken pasta:
- Thaw the desired portion in the refrigerator overnight.
- Transfer the thawed pasta to a microwave-safe dish and add a splash of chicken broth or milk to help maintain the creamy texture.
- Cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the pasta in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring gently and adding a small amount of chicken broth or milk as needed to prevent the pasta from drying out or sticking to the pan.
- If the reheated pasta appears dry or the sauce has separated, stir in a small amount of milk or chicken broth to help reconstitute the creamy texture.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste before serving the reheated cheesy ranch chicken pasta.
How To Reheat Leftover Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta
Reheat the cheesy ranch chicken pasta in the microwave: place a single serving of the pasta in a microwave-safe bowl and add a splash of chicken broth or water to help keep the pasta moist. cover the bowl with a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through.
Reheat the pasta on the stovetop: place the desired amount of leftover pasta in a saucepan and add a small amount of chicken broth or water. heat the pasta over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through and the sauce has reached your desired consistency. if the sauce becomes too thick, add more liquid as needed.
Reheat the pasta in the oven: preheat the oven to 350°f (175°c). transfer the leftover pasta to an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly and create a crispy texture.
Reheat the pasta in an air fryer: place a single serving of the leftover pasta in an air fryer-safe container. set the air fryer to 350°f (175°c) and cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the pasta is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Reheat the pasta in a slow cooker: transfer the leftover pasta to a slow cooker and add a small amount of chicken broth or water to help keep the pasta moist. cover and cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until the pasta is heated through. stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
Interesting Trivia About Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta
The ranch dressing mix used in this recipe adds a unique and flavorful twist to the classic chicken pasta dish.
Is Making Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta at Home Cost-Effective?
This cheesy ranch chicken pasta recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as chicken breasts, pasta, and cheese makes it a budget-friendly option. The addition of bacon and ranch dressing mix may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense is reasonable. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25, making it an economical choice for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Verdict: 9/10
Is Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Healthy or Unhealthy?
This cheesy ranch chicken pasta recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The recipe relies heavily on processed ingredients like condensed cream of chicken soup, ranch dressing mix, and cheese sauce, which are high in sodium, preservatives, and artificial flavors.
- The use of evaporated milk and butter adds significant amounts of saturated fat to the dish.
- Bacon, although tasty, is known for its high saturated fat and sodium content.
- The generous amount of cheese contributes to the high calorie and saturated fat content of the meal.
While this recipe can be enjoyed as an occasional indulgence, regular consumption may lead to health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and obesity.
To make this recipe healthier without compromising on flavor, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the condensed cream of chicken soup with a homemade version using low-sodium chicken broth, milk, and a small amount of flour as a thickener.
- Opt for low-fat evaporated milk or replace it with a combination of low-fat milk and Greek yogurt for a protein boost.
- Use a homemade ranch seasoning blend to control the sodium content and avoid artificial ingredients.
- Reduce the amount of cheese used or choose a lower-fat variety, such as part-skim mozzarella or reduced-fat cheddar.
- Replace half of the pasta with spiralized zucchini or other vegetables to increase the nutrient content and lower the carbohydrate load.
- Use turkey bacon or omit the bacon altogether to reduce the saturated fat content.
Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on the Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
The recipe for cheesy ranch chicken pasta is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The use of ranch dressing mix adds a unique tangy flavor, while the combination of cheddar cheese and cheese sauce creates a rich and creamy sauce. The use of an electric pressure cooker streamlines the cooking process, making it convenient for busy home cooks. The addition of bacon adds a savory crunch, complementing the tender chicken and al dente rotini pasta. Overall, this recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
Enhance Your Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
Delicious Alternatives to Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta
Why trust this Cheesy Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe:
This recipe guarantees a delicious and satisfying meal, as it features chicken breasts cooked to perfection in a flavorful blend of ranch dressing mix and onion powder. The addition of bacon adds a smoky and savory element, while the combination of mild cheddar cheese and cheese sauce creates a rich and creamy texture. The use of rotini pasta ensures that each bite is filled with delightful flavors and a satisfying chew. Trust in this recipe to deliver a mouthwatering dish that will surely become a family favorite.
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