If you are craving a cozy, crowd-pleasing dish that perfectly blends creamy comfort with a zesty twist, the Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe is your new best friend. This dish takes the classic macaroni and cheese up a notch by adding tender shredded chicken and a flavorful ranch seasoning mix, creating a delightful marriage of creamy, tangy, and cheesy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds. It’s straightforward to make yet impressively satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe plays an essential part—from the pasta providing the perfect tender base, to the cheeses creating that irresistible, silky sauce with depth and stretch. The ranch seasoning introduces a subtle herbaceous note, while the milk and cream ensure luscious creaminess. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni: Choose quality pasta that holds its shape well for the perfect bite every time.
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded: Adds hearty protein and keeps the dish satisfying and filling.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a rich base for the roux, adding depth and smoothness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the cheese sauce for that creamy texture we all love.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides creaminess and balance to the rich cheeses.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Elevates the sauce’s richness and velvety consistency.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 ounce): Injects that signature tangy, herby flavor to make this mac and cheese unique.
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds bold, savory cheesiness and depth.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Gives a wonderfully smooth, melty texture and mild flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle aroma booster that rounds out the savory profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a little kick to balance the creaminess.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential for enhancing all the flavors harmoniously.
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping (optional): Creates a bubbly, golden crust when baked.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional garnish): A pop of vibrant color and freshness to finish your dish beautifully.
How to Make Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pasta and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly greasing a 9 by 13 inch baking dish so nothing sticks. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the elbow macaroni until it’s perfectly al dente—firm to the bite but not crunchy. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare your luscious cheese sauce.
Step 2: Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and whisk in the flour. Cook this mixture for about 1 to 2 minutes until it turns lightly golden, which adds a subtle nutty flavor. Gradually add the milk and heavy cream, whisking continuously so no lumps form, and cook until the sauce thickens beautifully, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Step 3: Flavor It Up
Once your sauce has thickened, stir in the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and add the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until they melt into a smooth, decadent sauce. This is where the magic of the Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe truly shines—the ranch seasoning brings an irresistible zing that sets it apart from your everyday baked macaroni.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Fold the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken into the velvety cheese sauce until every pasta piece is coated with cheesy goodness. Pour this mixture into your prepared baking dish and, if desired, sprinkle the extra 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top for that gorgeous golden crust. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and lightly golden. Allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld perfectly.
How to Serve Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a stunning pop of green and a subtle brightness that cuts through the richness of the dish. If you want a little extra indulgence, a light dusting of crispy fried onions or a dash more black pepper can add texture and a hint of spice.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs delightfully with crisp, fresh salads such as a classic Caesar or a crunchy mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables like broccoli or Brussels sprouts make wonderful companions, balancing the creamy heft of the macaroni with their earthy, slightly caramelized flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe in individual ramekins topped with a crunchy breadcrumb or crushed Ritz cracker topping. You can also scoop it into halved baked potatoes or even stuff it inside grilled bell peppers for a colorful, shareable feast that’s as pretty as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld nicely overnight, making your next meal even more delightful.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well! Portion out the mac and cheese into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the creamy texture.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the mac and cheese on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between. Avoid overheating to keep it silky and smooth, just like when fresh.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking my own?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds juicy, flavorful shredded chicken with minimal effort, making the Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe even quicker to prepare.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning mix?
You can make a simple substitute by combining dried parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, salt, and black pepper. This homemade blend will still infuse your mac and cheese with those classic ranch flavors.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding extra veggies like sautéed mushrooms, peas, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and texture while keeping the cheesy, creamy essence intact.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Definitely. Sharp cheddar and mozzarella work beautifully, but feel free to swap mozzarella with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a sharper or spicier twist. Just make sure to use cheeses that melt well for that perfect sauce.
How can I make the topping extra crispy?
Before baking, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs or crushed crackers on top of the mac and cheese. This will create a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy interior.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably comforting and joyful about a warm dish of Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe fresh from the oven. It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that brings cheesy, tangy, and satisfying flavors all into one bowl, perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!
Print
Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese is a creamy, comforting baked pasta dish combining tender shredded chicken, a rich blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, and flavorful ranch seasoning. This hearty American classic is perfect for a satisfying family dinner, featuring elbow macaroni coated in a luscious cheese sauce baked to bubbly perfection and topped with an optional golden layer of cheese and fresh parsley garnish.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 ounces elbow macaroni
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 ounce)
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Topping and Garnish (Optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and set aside.
- Cook macaroni: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Make roux: In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Whisk in the all purpose flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the mixture turns lightly golden to cook out the raw flour taste.
- Prepare cheese sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook and stir until the mixture thickens, about 4 to 5 minutes.
- Season the sauce: Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to low to prevent scorching.
- Add cheese: Add the shredded sharp cheddar and mozzarella cheeses to the sauce and stir gently until all the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine pasta and chicken: Fold the cooked macaroni and shredded chicken gently into the cheese sauce until everything is evenly coated.
- Assemble the dish: Transfer the macaroni and cheese mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the optional 1/2 cup cheddar cheese evenly over the top if desired for a cheesy crust.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is bubbly and lightly golden brown.
- Rest and garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if you like before serving.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a convenient shortcut that adds extra flavor.
- For added texture and crunch, sprinkle buttered breadcrumbs on top before baking.
- Substitute Monterey Jack cheese for mozzarella to give the dish a sharper cheese flavor.
