Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese is the perfect comfort food for anyone who loves cheesy pasta dishes. This recipe takes creamy, cheesy pasta to the next level by adding tender, shredded chicken and savory ranch seasoning. It's guaranteed to please everyone and is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, potlucks, or gatherings with family and friends.
Detailed Recipe
Ingredients:
The Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cooked and shredded
The Mac and Cheese:
- 8 ounces elbow macaroni pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or homemade ranch seasoning)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the elbow macaroni according to package directions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Cook the Chicken (if not pre-cooked): If using raw chicken breasts or thighs, heat a separate skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Shred the chicken with two forks and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In the same pot (or a large saucepan) used to cook the pasta, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Slowly whisk in the milk, whisking continually until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth. Reduce heat to low and stir in the cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning mix. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Assemble & Bake: Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). In a large bowl, combine the cooked and drained pasta, shredded chicken, and creamy cheese sauce. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with additional shredded cheddar cheese for topping (optional).
- Bake & Broil (Optional): Bake the mac and cheese for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and bubbly. If desired, broil for the last 2-3 minutes of baking to get a crispy cheesy topping on the mac and cheese.
- Serve & Enjoy! Let the mac and cheese cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm and comforting Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese!
Tips:
- Creamy or Cheesy: For a cheesier mac and cheese, add ½ cup of shredded cheese. If you prefer a slightly looser, creamier sauce, add an extra splash of milk.
- Homemade Ranch Seasoning: If you don't have a ranch seasoning packet, you can easily make your own. Here's a simple recipe: Combine one tablespoon dried buttermilk, one teaspoon dried onion flakes, one teaspoon dried chives, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon dried parsley, ¼ teaspoon paprika, and a pinch of black pepper.
- Leftovers: Leftover Chicken Ranch Mac and Cheese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a saucepan or microwave until warmed through.
