Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese

Two things that aren't bad together: ranch and cheese. Okay, they're actually pretty darn good when paired together. This quick Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese recipe is packed with flavor and so easy to whip up.

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chicken + ranch + cheese, yes please

Mac and Cheese always feels nostalgic to me. It was always a quick and easy go-to meal growing up, but it always came from a box. Now I'm not hating on boxed macaroni, but it's about time I elevate it.

This Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese takes the simple dish to a whole new level. A ranch seasoning packet provides TONS of flavor, and with melted sharp cheddar, we get a creamy cheese sauce to smother the elbow noodles with.

I almost always have 4-6 ranch seasoning packets on hand, just because they're so versatile in the kitchen. Jack and I enjoyed this Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese when we were craving take-out, but settled for 'let's use what we have in the fridge'. Alas, this gem of a meal was created.

Ingredients for this Ranch Mac and Cheese

Here's what you'll need to make your new favorite version of macaroni:

Banza rotini noodles: Regular noodles will also work, but I like Banza for the extra protein. Choose elbow noodles for the classic mac 'n cheese look.

Chicken breasts: I cooked mine stove top, but you could also get it pre-cooked or use rotisserie style chicken.

Sharp cheddar cheese: It is mac 'n CHEESE after all. Sharp cheddar provides a strong umami flavor that is SO tasty.

Nut Milk: Unflavored, and unsweetened. Regular milk will also work.

Butter: This makes your sauce perfectly rich.

Ranch seasoning packet: You can usually find this in the dressing aisle. Also, heck out my Spinach Feta Turkey Burgers, which are a fan favorite and use this seasoning, too.

Spray olive oil: To prevent sticking.

A few tools needed

To make this Ranch Mac and Cheese grab two sauce pans, a cheese grater, a cutting board, a spatula, a strainer, and a whisk.

How to make Chicken Ranch mac and cheese

1. In a sauce pan, cook noodles according to the box instructions. Strain after cooking.
2. Meanwhile, dice chicken breasts. Spray and heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken pieces with ½ packet of Ranch seasoning until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached.
3. Grate the cheese block into fine shreds. The finer it's grated, the easier it is to melt.
4. Combine butter, nut milk, sharp shredded cheddar cheese, and the other ½ packet of ranch seasoning in a second sauce pan over low heat.
5. Continually stir the sauce until cheese is melted and well combined.
6. Add noodles and chicken into the pot with the cheese sauce. Stir together.
7. Plate your Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese and garnish with fresh cracked pepper.
8. Enjoy!

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Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese FAQs

How should I store my mac 'n cheese? This dish will last a good 3-5 days in an air-tight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze a portion of Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese in tupperware for up to 3 months.

Can I make this Vegetarian? Of course! Just leave out the chicken and you're good to go. If you choose this option, add the entire ranch seasoning packet to the sauce. This dish would go great with an added can of chickpeas in place of the chicken for some extra protein.

Why sharp cheddar? Sharp cheddar contrasts the ranch seasoning super well in this dish, but feel free to switch it up! White cheddar, gouda, or an Italian blend would also be super tasty. If you do like the sound of gouda, try my Gouda and Roasted Vegetable Mac 'n Cheese. It's so decadent!

Could I use heavy cream instead of milk in this mac and cheese? You can for an even creamier sauce, but I'd recommend adding some pasta water to your sauce. The heavy cream will make the sauce thicker than milk will, and more water will help thin it out.

Can't get enough noodles? You'll also love these pasta dishes...

Spicy Sausage Hummus Pasta

One Pot Pasta Alfredo

Healthy One Pot Pasta

Creamy Sweet Potato Pasta

Pesto Pasta Salad

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I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. It's my passion to create dishes that can be shared with others. Tell me something you loved, something that you think it might need, or just say hi!

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