Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. This dish brings together creamy mac and cheese with tender, ranch-seasoned chicken and crispy bacon for the ultimate indulgent meal. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you crave second helpings, whether you’re serving it at a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at a potluck. The richness of cheddar and mozzarella blends perfectly with the tangy ranch flavors, making every bite satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

For the Ranch Chicken

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes

• 1 package (about 2 tablespoons) dry ranch seasoning
  
  

For the Macaroni and Cheese

• ¼ cup unsalted butter

• ¼ cup all-purpose flour

• 1½ cups whole milk, warmed

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder

• 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning

• ½ cup white cheddar cheese, freshly grated

• ¼ cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni (about 2 cups uncooked), cooked al dente and drained

• 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  
  

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

1. In a bowl, toss the cubed chicken with the ranch seasoning until evenly coated.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Cook the chicken in batches for 1–2 minutes on each side, until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

4. Remove chicken from heat and cover loosely with foil to keep warm.

5. Wipe out the skillet to use for the next steps.
   
   

Make the Roux and Cheese Sauce

1. In the cleaned skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is golden.

3. Remove skillet from heat and gradually whisk in warmed milk until smooth.

4. Return to heat and cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens (about 3–5 minutes).

5. Stir in salt, garlic powder, and the ranch seasoning.

6. Remove from heat and add cheddar and mozzarella, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
   
   

Combine and Finish

1. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese sauce and stir until fully coated.

2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Gently mix in the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon.

4. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
   
   

Serving and Nutrients

Serving Size: This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Estimated Nutrition per Serving (approximate):

• Calories: 550–650 kcal

• Protein: 35g

• Carbohydrates: 40g

• Fat: 30g

• Fiber: 1–2g

• Sodium: 850–1000mg
  
  

These values may vary depending on exact ingredients used. For more accurate information, consider using a nutritional calculator based on your specific brands and measurements.