Creamy Ranch Chicken Bowtie Pasta
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs skinless chicken breasts
- 1 pack (1 oz) ranch seasoning
- 2 small cans (10.5 oz each) cream of chicken soup
- 16 oz cream cheese, diced
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Lay the skinless chicken breasts flat on the bottom of your crockpot.
- Sprinkle the ranch seasoning evenly over the chicken.
- Pour the cream of chicken soup over the chicken and ranch seasoning.
- Dice the cream cheese into small cubes and spread them evenly over the chicken mixture.
- Cook on low in your crockpot for 5 hours.
- About 15 minutes before the chicken is done, cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions on the stove top. Drain and set aside.
- Once the 5 hours are over, stir the mixture in the crockpot, breaking up the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the crockpot, stirring to combine well with the creamy chicken mixture.
- Continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes on low, allowing the pasta to absorb the flavors.
- Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and added freshness.
- Serve hot, and enjoy this delicious and creamy ranch chicken bowtie pasta!
This recipe yields 6-8 servings, making it perfect for a family dinner or to share with friends. Adjust the seasoning and cream cheese amounts to suit your taste preferences.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about Creamy Ranch Chicken Bowtie Pasta:
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta? A1: Yes, feel free to use your favorite pasta instead of bowtie pasta. Penne, fusilli, or fettuccine would work well with this creamy ranch chicken recipe.
Q2: Can I use frozen chicken breasts? A2: While it’s generally recommended to use thawed chicken for food safety reasons, you can use frozen chicken breasts. However, ensure they reach a safe internal temperature during cooking.
Q3: Is there a substitute for cream of chicken soup? A3: If you prefer, you can substitute cream of mushroom or cream of celery soup for a different flavor profile. Additionally, you can use a homemade cream soup base.
Q4: Can I make this on the stovetop instead of a crockpot? A4: Yes, you can adapt the recipe for the stovetop. Cook the chicken in a large pot, simmering until fully cooked, and then follow the remaining steps as directed.
Q5: How can I make it spicier? A5: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the ranch seasoning for a subtle kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
Q6: Can I freeze leftovers? A6: Yes, you can freeze leftovers in airtight containers. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
Q7: What can I serve with Creamy Ranch Chicken Bowtie Pasta? A7: This dish is quite hearty on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Q8: How do I store leftovers? A8: Store leftovers in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
Q9: Can I use low-fat cream cheese? A9: Yes, you can use low-fat or Neufchâtel cheese as a lighter alternative without sacrificing creaminess.
Q10: Can I use a different seasoning instead of ranch? A10: Absolutely, you can experiment with different seasonings such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, or onion powder for a unique twist.
