Ranch Chicken Pasta
This ranch chicken pasta is simple to make, flavorful, and a lighter take on the many creamy versions out there. Ready in about 30 minutes!
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta
- 2 chicken breasts cut in half lengthwise
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 tablespoon + 1/2 tablespoon ranch seasoning divided
- Pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 2 medium tomatoes chopped
- 2 cups (packed) fresh baby spinach
- For serving: freshly grated parmesan cheese, chopped parsley optional, to taste
Instructions
- Boil a salted pot of water for your pasta and cook it al dente according to package directions.
- Meanwhile, cut the chicken breasts in half lengthwise so you get 4 thinner pieces. Season them with the garlic powder, 1/2 tablespoon ranch seasoning, and some pepper.
- Add the oil to a skillet and let it heat up for a few minutes. Cook the chicken about 5-6 minutes/side or until it's golden and cooked through (165F). Transfer the chicken to a plate.
- Reduce the heat to medium, then add the butter to the skillet. Once it's melted, add the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in the garlic, followed by the chicken broth, lemon juice, and remaining 1/2 tablespoon of ranch seasoning (whisk until smooth).
- Stir in the tomatoes and continue cooking the sauce until it's reduced a bit (3-5 minutes).
- Meanwhile, cut the cooked chicken up into bite-size strips.
- Add the spinach to the skillet and stir/toss and let it wilt for a minute or two, then add the chicken in along with the drained pasta and toss until coated.
- Serve with parmesan and parsley if desired, and enjoy immediately.
Nutrition
Calories: 490kcal | Carbohydrates: 50g | Protein: 33g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 8g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 87mg | Sodium: 696mg | Potassium: 837mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 2129IU | Vitamin C: 19mg | Calcium: 47mg | Iron: 2mg
