If you’re hunting for the ultimate comfort food that delivers big on flavor and creamy coziness, look no further than this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe. Imagine tender chunks of chicken nestled in a velvety, three-cheese sauce layered with everyone’s favorite ranch seasoning—all wrapped around perfectly cooked elbow macaroni. This dreamy dish brings a delicious twist to classic mac and cheese, making it practically impossible to resist. Whether you’re cooking for a bustling weeknight, a family gathering, or just to treat yourself, this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe never fails to win hearts (and empty plates).
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll love how easy it is to pull this together with humble ingredients—yet every component plays a starring role. Each ingredient in this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe brings something special, from creamy richness to savory depth or that hint of herby zing. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters!
- Elbow macaroni (12 oz): The classic shape soaks up all that cheesy sauce and gives you the perfect bite every time.
- Cooked chicken breast (2 cups, shredded or chopped): Adds hearty protein and a satisfying, tender texture; rotisserie chicken works great for convenience.
- Butter (2 tablespoons): The beginning of a rich roux for a smooth, luscious base.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the sauce so it clings luxuriously to every noodle.
- Milk (2 cups): Gives the sauce body and a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory flavors.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Makes the sauce irresistibly creamy without being too heavy.
- Ranch seasoning mix (1 packet, 1 oz): Delivers that zingy, herby ranch flavor everyone loves in this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (2 cups): Provides sharp, melty goodness and signature golden color.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Adds perfect stretch and that pizza-worthy, gooey finish.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Lends savory, umami depth and a salty sparkle to the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the dish and letting the flavors pop.
- Chopped fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): A fresh and colorful finishing touch.
How to Make Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni according to the package directions until just al dente. Give it a good stir now and then to keep it from sticking. Once it’s perfectly tender with a little bite, drain well and set aside. This step ensures your pasta will soak up just the right amount of luscious sauce later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Roux
In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter until it starts to foam. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for about a minute. This quick cooking step banishes any raw flour taste and sets the stage for a velvety smooth cheese sauce—don’t skip it!
Step 3: Build the Creamy Base
Whisk in the milk and heavy cream, pouring slowly to avoid any pesky lumps. Keep stirring for 3 to 4 minutes as the mixture thickens to a silky consistency. This is when your kitchen starts to smell irresistibly cozy and familiar.
Step 4: Add Ranch Flavor and Cheeses
Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix, then add the cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses one handful at a time. Stir until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce is dreamy-smooth. Now you have a flavorful ranch cheese sauce at its peak—sharp, creamy, and rich with cheesy tang.
Step 5: Stir in Pasta and Chicken
Add the drained macaroni and cooked chicken into the pan (along with any delicious chicken juices). Gently stir everything together until each noodle and chicken piece is lavishly coated in sauce and the whole dish is heated through. Taste, then season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove from heat, sprinkle fresh parsley on top if you like, and serve your Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe while piping hot. For extra flair, you can transfer everything to a baking dish, top with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until golden and crispy.
How to Serve Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a bright, herby finish that cuts through the richness and looks beautiful on the table. If you want to get a little wild, crispy bacon bits, a drizzle of ranch dressing, or even extra cheese on top really send this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe over the top.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted broccoli to balance out the creamy indulgence. Garlic bread or warm rolls make for an even cozier meal—you’ll want to mop up every last bit of sauce!
Creative Ways to Present
Try scooping individual servings into mini ramekins for dinner parties, or bring out a big, bubbling casserole dish for a family-style feast. Leftovers make awesome lunchbox treats, or stuff them into bell peppers for a fun twist that kids love. There are endless ways to enjoy this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe in style.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. Your Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe will stay fresh and tasty for up to three days—if there’s any left at all!
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze this dish! Spoon cooled mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. When properly sealed, it will keep deliciously for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through. If you went for the baked breadcrumb topping, a quick stint in the oven crisps everything up beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While elbow macaroni is classic for this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe, shells, penne, or rotini all work beautifully—they catch plenty of sauce, so use what you have or prefer.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
If you’re out of ranch seasoning, you can mix your own with dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. It won’t be identical, but it’ll still bring bold, herby flavor.
Can I use a different cheese blend?
Definitely! Feel free to swap in Monterey Jack, gouda, or even pepper jack for a little kick. Just keep the total cheese quantity roughly the same so the sauce stays creamy.
Is there a lighter version of Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe?
Try using reduced-fat cheese and milk instead of cream, or bulk out the dish with steamed broccoli or spinach. It’ll be a touch less indulgent but still wonderfully satisfying.
Can I add extra veggies or other mix-ins?
Yes! Cooked bacon, peas, sautéed mushrooms, or steamed broccoli all pair deliciously with the flavors in this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe. Get creative and use your favorite add-ins.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to whip up this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe—there’s truly nothing like its cozy vibes and zesty, cheesy goodness. Give it a try, put your own twist on it, and get ready for a new family favorite. Happy cooking!
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Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
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
