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Ultimate Chicken Pasta Recipe - Creamy Comfort Food Dinner

This creamy chicken pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food that combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a satisfying weeknight dinner. The dish comes together in under 30 minutes with rich, savory flavors that will have your family begging for seconds.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 650
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 12 oz pasta (penne or bowtie work well)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Add chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits.
  4. Reduce heat to medium and add cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Gradually add milk or cream, stirring constantly.
  5. Add ranch seasoning and stir to combine. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
  6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the creamy sauce. Stir in shredded cheeses until melted and creamy.
  7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For an extra creamy texture, reserve about 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining and add it to the sauce. The starchy water helps the sauce cling better to the pasta.