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Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese Recipe

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3.8 from 3 reviews

A creamy and flavorful Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese recipe that combines tender chicken breasts seasoned with ranch, tender shell noodles, and sharp cheddar cheese melted into a rich sauce. This quick and easy stovetop dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner in just 25 minutes.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 box shell noodles (12 oz)

Chicken

  • 2 chicken breasts (or pre-cooked, pre-shredded chicken)
  • Spray olive oil
  • 1/2 packet Ranch seasoning (for chicken)

Cheese Sauce

  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese (Tillamook), grated finely
  • 1 cup milk (Fairlife or preferred milk)
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 packet Ranch seasoning

Instructions

  1. Cook the noodles: In a saucepan, cook the shell noodles according to the box instructions. Once tender, strain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Meanwhile, dice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Spray a skillet with olive oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with 1/2 packet of ranch seasoning. Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, ensuring it is fully cooked and safe to eat.
  3. Grate the cheese: While the chicken cooks, grate the sharp cheddar cheese finely. Finer shreds will melt more easily and evenly in the sauce.
  4. Make the cheese sauce: In a second saucepan set over low heat, combine the butter, milk, finely shredded cheddar cheese, and the remaining 1/2 packet of ranch seasoning. Stir continuously to melt the cheese and blend all ingredients into a smooth, creamy sauce.
  5. Combine all components: Add the cooked noodles and seasoned chicken directly into the saucepan with the cheese sauce. Stir well to coat the noodles and chicken evenly.
  6. Serve and garnish: Plate the Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese, garnish with freshly cracked black pepper if desired, and enjoy this creamy, flavorful dish!

Notes

  • Using freshly grated cheese improves the texture and meltability of the sauce.
  • To save time, pre-cooked or shredded rotisserie chicken can be used in place of raw chicken breasts.
  • Be careful not to overcook the noodles; follow package instructions closely.
  • For a richer flavor, you can substitute milk with half-and-half or cream, but adjust calories accordingly.
  • This recipe can be customized with additional mix-ins like cooked bacon, green onions, or diced tomatoes for added flavor and texture.
  • Author: Monica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://monicarecipes.com/chicken-ranch-mac-and-cheese-recipe/