Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this creamy and flavorful Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese recipe. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or potluck gathering, this dish combines tender chicken, al dente macaroni, and a rich, cheesy sauce infused with the zesty flavors of ranch seasoning. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
Elbow Macaroni:
12 oz,
Cooked Chicken Breast:
2 cups (shredded or chopped),
Butter:
2 tablespoons,
All-Purpose Flour:
2 tablespoons,
Milk:
2 cups,
Heavy Cream:
1 cup,
Ranch Seasoning Mix:
1 packet (1 oz),
Cheddar Cheese:
2 cups (shredded),
Mozzarella Cheese:
1 cup (shredded),
Parmesan Cheese:
1/2 cup (grated),
Salt and Black Pepper:
to taste,
Fresh Parsley:
1 tablespoon (chopped, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Macaroni: Cook the macaroni according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly add the milk and cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the ranch seasoning, then add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until completely melted and smooth.
- Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add cooked bacon or steamed broccoli for extra flavor and texture.
- This dish can also be baked for 15 minutes at 375°F with a breadcrumb topping for a crispy finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 790mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
