Nora
There’s something irresistible about a pasta dish that brings together creamy richness, savory chicken, and the tangy punch of ranch seasoning. Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta is exactly that — a comfort food dream in a bowl. With tender noodles coated in a silky, flavorful sauce, juicy bites of chicken, and just enough herbs to keep it fresh, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.
The best part? It’s simple enough to whip up in under 30 minutes yet feels indulgent enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re a ranch lover or simply on the hunt for a pasta recipe that gets everyone going back for seconds, this dish has you covered. Each forkful is creamy, cozy, and full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta
This pasta is the definition of easy comfort food. The ranch seasoning blend infuses the sauce with layers of zesty, herby goodness, while the chicken adds protein to make it a satisfying meal. It’s versatile too — you can swap in your favorite pasta shape, add veggies for color, or make it extra cheesy for an indulgent twist.
What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?
While rotini and penne are popular choices thanks to their sauce-hugging spirals and ridges, you can use almost any pasta you have on hand. Fettucine gives a luxurious, silky texture, while shells trap the creamy ranch sauce in every bite. The key is to choose a pasta that holds onto sauce well for maximum flavor in every mouthful.
Ingredients for the Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta
This recipe comes together with pantry staples and fresh ingredients that deliver big on flavor. Each plays an important role in creating that creamy, satisfying bite.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts – Lean, tender, and perfect for absorbing the ranch-seasoned sauce.
- Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning mix – The signature blend that brings zesty, tangy flavor to the dish.
- Pasta of choice – Rotini, penne, or shells are excellent for holding onto the creamy sauce.
- Heavy cream – Adds a rich, silky texture to the sauce.
- Chicken broth – Deepens the savory flavor while keeping the sauce balanced.
- Parmesan cheese – Brings a nutty, salty kick that melds perfectly with ranch.
- Olive oil – For browning the chicken to golden perfection.
- Garlic – Gives depth and aromatic warmth to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper – Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
How To Make the Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and a tablespoon of Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning. Cook until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side. Remove and let rest before slicing.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce
In the same skillet used for chicken, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, and remaining ranch seasoning. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Stir in Parmesan cheese, sliced chicken, and a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Plate the pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley for a burst of color.
Serving and Storing Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta
This recipe comfortably serves 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or casual get-together. Serve it immediately while the sauce is hot and creamy. For a fresh finish, sprinkle on chopped parsley or add a squeeze of lemon juice.
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Freezing is possible, though the dairy-based sauce may separate slightly when thawed.
What to Serve With Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta?
Garlic Bread
Crispy, buttery garlic bread is perfect for scooping up every drop of the creamy ranch sauce.
Side Salad with Vinaigrette
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
Steamed Broccoli
Lightly steamed broccoli adds a pop of color and healthy crunch to the plate.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These caramelized beauties add depth and earthy sweetness.
Grilled Asparagus
Tender-crisp asparagus spears bring fresh, grassy flavor.
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a bright contrast.
Sautéed Mushrooms
Their umami-rich flavor complements the creamy ranch sauce beautifully.
Parmesan-Crusted Zucchini
A lighter side with a crispy bite that pairs effortlessly with the pasta.
Want More Pasta Ideas?
If you love this creamy Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta, you’ll enjoy exploring these other comforting and flavor-packed pasta creations:
• Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole for a baked, cheesy delight.
• Tomato Spinach Shrimp Pasta for a fresh, vibrant seafood twist.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta when you want creamy pasta that’s pure romance.
• One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta for a smoky, hearty meal with minimal cleanup.
• Chicken Mushroom Alfredo for a classic that never goes out of style.
Save This Pin For Later
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add veggies or extra cheese? Did you try it with a different pasta shape?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.
Explore beautifully curated pasta and dinner ideas on NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and find your next comfort food favorite!
Hidden Valley Ranch Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning mix
- 12 ounces pasta of choice
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning. Cook 5–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup pasta water.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add heavy cream, chicken broth, and remaining ranch seasoning. Simmer 3–4 minutes.
- Add pasta, Parmesan, and chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding pasta water if needed.
- Serve warm, garnished with parsley or extra Parmesan.