Description
Creamy Ranch Chicken Noodles is a comforting and hearty weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken pieces tossed with egg noodles in a rich, creamy ranch-flavored sauce enhanced with cheddar cheese and fresh parsley.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz egg noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix, divided
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook Noodles: Prepare the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain well and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces and season with half of the ranch seasoning mix. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes or until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make Roux and Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for an additional minute to form a roux, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add Liquids and Seasoning: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the remaining ranch seasoning, heavy cream, and sour cream. Cook the sauce for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Incorporate Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Chicken and Noodles: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained egg noodles. Toss everything together thoroughly to coat the noodles and chicken evenly with the creamy ranch sauce.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- Use freshly chopped parsley for a burst of fresh flavor and color.
- To make the dish lighter, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt and use low-fat cheddar cheese.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free flour and gluten-free noodles.
- Ensure not to overcook the noodles to keep the perfect al dente texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to maintain creaminess.
