Why Make This Recipe
One-skillet meals are a lifesaver for busy days. This One-Skillet Spicy Ranch Chicken & Steak Pasta is not only quick to make, but it also combines the rich flavors of chicken and steak with a spicy ranch twist. The creamy texture of the heavy cream balances out the heat, making it a delicious dish everyone will enjoy. Plus, with only one skillet to clean, this recipe simplifies meal prep and cleanup!
How to Make One-Skillet Spicy Ranch Chicken & Steak Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 lb steak, diced
- 12 oz pasta (your choice)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, add the diced chicken and steak. Cook over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the cooked meat and stir to combine.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine everything well.
- Serve hot and enjoy your meal!
How to Serve One-Skillet Spicy Ranch Chicken & Steak Pasta
This dish is best served warm right from the skillet. You can garnish it with some chopped parsley or extra parmesan cheese for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or garlic bread to complete your meal.
How to Store One-Skillet Spicy Ranch Chicken & Steak Pasta
To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.
Tips to Make One-Skillet Spicy Ranch Chicken & Steak Pasta
- Adjust the spice level by choosing different ranch seasoning mixes or adding hot sauce.
- Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
- For added veggies, toss in some spinach or bell peppers when cooking the meat.
Variation
For a lighter version of the dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with a light cream or chicken broth. You may also try different proteins like shrimp or sausage.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken or steak?
Yes, you can use frozen meat. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even browning.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Sure! You can replace the chicken and steak with your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini and bell peppers, and use vegetable broth instead of heavy cream.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and steak, prepare the pasta, and mix them with the ranch seasoning and cream. Store them separately, and then combine and heat them just before serving.
One-Skillet Spicy Ranch Chicken & Steak Pasta
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced Can use frozen chicken, thawed.
- 1 lb steak, diced Can use frozen steak, thawed.
- 12 oz pasta (your choice) Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta to suit dietary needs.
Sauce ingredients
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix Adjust spice level by using different seasoning mixes.
- 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter version, substitute with light cream or chicken broth.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cooking meat
- In a large skillet, add the diced chicken and steak. Cook over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix over the cooked meat and stir to combine.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combining
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine everything well.
- Serve hot and enjoy your meal!