Okay, I’ve got a new favorite. It’s cheesy, it’s creamy, it’s packed with flavor—and yes, it all comes together in one skillet. This ranch chicken and broccoli pasta is basically comfort food on easy mode.

You get tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and pasta all coated in a creamy ranch-cheese sauce. The ranch gives it that tangy twist, and the cheese makes it super melty and rich. It tastes like something that took way longer—but it’s ready fast.

This one’s perfect for busy nights when I want real food without the mess. One skillet, minimal cleanup, and a whole lot of flavor. My family devoured it before I could even sit down.

If you’re in the mood for something cheesy, hearty, and simple—this skillet’s calling your name. Let’s make dinner feel easy (and taste amazing).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy One-Pan Wonder: Everything — pasta, protein, veggies, and sauce — cooks in one skillet. Fewer dishes, more flavor.
Family-Approved: It’s cheesy, creamy, and loaded with ranch — flavors even picky eaters can get behind.
Weeknight Friendly: Ready in under an hour with minimal prep and pantry-staple ingredients.
Balanced Meal: Includes protein, carbs, and greens, so it’s filling and nourishing without being fussy.
Customizable: Swap the pasta, cheese, or veggies depending on what you have on hand.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: About 45 minutes

Servings:
Serves 4–6 people as a main dish. Want leftovers? Double the recipe and use a large, deep skillet.

Difficulty:
Beginner-friendly but still satisfying for experienced cooks who love bold, creamy comfort food.

Required Kitchen Tools

Large deep skillet or sauté pan with lid
Cutting board and knife
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this creamy skillet pasta come together:

Main Ingredients:

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp cheddar brings bold cheesy flavor and melts smoothly.

2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and vegetables.

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced – Bite-sized pieces cook evenly and stay tender.

Salt and pepper, to taste – Basic seasoning for the chicken.

2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen; just make sure they’re in small florets for quick cooking.

1 packet ranch seasoning mix – Adds that zesty, herby, tangy ranch flavor with no effort.

2 cups chicken broth – Creates the base of the creamy sauce and cooks the pasta right in the pan.

1 cup heavy cream – Adds richness and thickness.

8 oz rotini pasta (about 2½ cups) – The spiral shape holds onto the sauce beautifully.

How to Make Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet (Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Sauté the Chicken

Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

2. Sauté the Broccoli

In the same skillet, add a splash more oil if needed. Toss in the broccoli florets and sauté for about 3–4 minutes until they brighten in color and start to soften. You want them crisp-tender — not mushy.

3. Add Pasta, Broth, and Seasoning

Return the chicken to the skillet. Stir in the uncooked rotini pasta, chicken broth, ranch seasoning mix, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

4. Simmer and Cook

Once it’s bubbling, reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring once or twice, until the pasta is tender and the liquid has thickened into a sauce. If the liquid reduces too quickly, add an extra splash of broth.

5. Stir in the Cheese

Once the pasta is cooked and creamy, turn off the heat. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese a handful at a time until fully melted and incorporated. The sauce will thicken slightly as the cheese melts.

6. Let Rest Before Serving

Let the skillet sit uncovered for 3–5 minutes before serving. This helps the sauce settle and coat the pasta more evenly.

Variations for Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

Use a Different Pasta: Penne, shells, or even egg noodles can work — just adjust simmer time.
Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
Swap in Veggies: No broccoli? Use frozen peas, green beans, or chopped spinach.
Cheese Twist: Mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for gooeyness or more heat.
Add Bacon: Stir in crispy crumbled bacon at the end for extra flavor.

How to Serve Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta

This dish is super comforting and hearty on its own, but here are a few ways to make it even more satisfying:

With Garlic Bread: Serve with a slice of buttery garlic bread or toasted baguette to scoop up the extra sauce.
With a Side Salad: A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance out the richness.
As a Casserole: Transfer it to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and broil for 2–3 minutes for a baked finish.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

Refrigerate Leftovers: Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat Gently: Microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of broth or milk if the pasta thickens too much. Or reheat on the stovetop over low heat.
Freezing Not Recommended: Due to the dairy in the sauce, freezing can change the texture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Cut Chicken Evenly: This ensures even cooking and tender bites throughout.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Stop cooking when it’s just al dente. It’ll continue to soften as it rests in the hot skillet.
Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents and doesn’t melt as smoothly.
Simmer Gently: Too much heat will cause the sauce to reduce too fast or curdle. Keep it at a soft simmer.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Estimate)
Calories	520
Protein	34g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	13g
Fiber	3g
Sugar	3g
Sodium	780mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and will vary based on ingredients used.

Cheesy Ranch Chicken And Broccoli Pasta Skillet

Recipe by Nancy HollarCourse: pasta recipes

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

520

kcal

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups broccoli florets
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
8 oz rotini pasta (about 2½ cups)
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Directions

Sauté the Chicken:
In a large deep skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Cook the Broccoli:
In the same pan, sauté broccoli for 3–4 minutes until slightly tender.
Add Pasta and Sauce Base:
Return chicken to the skillet. Add pasta, ranch mix, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a gentle boil.
Simmer:
Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
Add Cheese:
Turn off heat. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Let Rest & Serve:
Let sit for 3–5 minutes before serving to thicken the sauce slightly.

Cheesy Ranch Pasta FAQs

Can I use precooked chicken?
Yes. Add it in with the pasta and liquids so it can heat through without drying out.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Thaw slightly before adding, or cook a few extra minutes.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Replace chicken with white beans or mushrooms and use veggie broth instead of chicken broth.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Ranch Chicken and Broccoli Pasta Skillet has become a go-to in my kitchen for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays when I just want something comforting without a pile of dishes. It’s creamy, satisfying, and full of flavor — with that nostalgic ranch twist that makes it a crowd-pleaser. One pan, one cozy meal. Give it a try and see how easy comfort food can be.