Get ready for a delicious and easy dinner with this One-Pot Cheddar Ranch Chicken and Sausage Rotini recipe! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breasts, diced
– 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups rotini pasta
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or skillet, cook the chicken over medium heat until browned.
2. Add the sausage, onion, and bell pepper and cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the rotini pasta, chicken broth, milk, and ranch seasoning mix.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until pasta is cooked and sauce has thickened.
5. Stir in the cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 450
– Fat: 22g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Protein: 32g
Helpful Tips:
1. For added flavor, try using different types of smoked sausage such as Andouille or Italian sausage.
2. You can customize this recipe by adding in your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
3. To make it spicy, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos.
4. Feel free to use different types of cheese like mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda for a unique twist.
5. Make it a complete meal by serving with a side salad or garlic bread.
6. Use whole wheat or gluten-free rotini pasta for a healthier alternative.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving for a pop of color.
8. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
9. This dish reheats well, simply add a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy consistency.
10. Double the recipe and freeze individual portions for quick and convenient meals later.
Expert Secrets:
1. Brown the chicken well for added flavor before adding in the rest of the ingredients.
2. Allow the pasta to simmer in the sauce to absorb all the flavors and become perfectly cooked.
3. Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning mix to suit your taste preferences.
4. Stir in the cheddar cheese gradually to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth sauce.
5. Use high-quality chicken broth for enhanced taste in the dish.
6. Cut the vegetables evenly to ensure even cooking throughout.
7. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
8. Taste and adjust the seasonings before serving to ensure it’s perfectly seasoned.
9. Customize the spice level by adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce if desired.
10. Experiment with different types of proteins like shrimp, tofu, or turkey for a twist on the recipe.
