Pin it
This BBQ ranch chicken and broccoli pasta combines the smoky flavors of barbecue sauce with creamy ranch dressing for a quick weeknight dinner that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. The colorful dish balances protein, vegetables, and pasta in one satisfying meal that comes together in just 30 minutes.
My family discovered this recipe during a particularly hectic sports season when we needed quick dinners between practices. It's now in our regular rotation because everyone from my picky toddler to my sauce-loving teenager gives it enthusiastic approval.
Ingredients
- Rotini or penne pasta holds the sauce perfectly in its ridges and curves
- Cheddar cheese creates that irresistible melty topping that brings everything together
- Broccoli florets add nutrition and a pop of color can use fresh or frozen depending on what you have
- Cooked chicken breast provides lean protein choose rotisserie chicken for an even quicker prep
- BBQ sauce brings smoky sweetness select your family's favorite brand for personalized flavor
- Ranch dressing adds creamy tanginess look for good quality ranch for the best flavor profile
- Olive oil prevents sticking and adds a subtle richness to the final dish
- Salt and pepper for balancing and enhancing all the flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
- Boil the pasta according to package directions in well salted water until al dente but with a critical time saving technique add the broccoli florets during the final 3 minutes of cooking. This clever method allows the broccoli to cook perfectly tender crisp without requiring a separate pot or steamer. Drain both together and set aside while you prepare the sauce.
- Warm the Chicken
- Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers slightly. Add your cooked chicken pieces and warm them through for 2 3 minutes. The goal here is not to brown the chicken since it's already cooked but simply to heat it and prepare it to absorb the sauce flavors.
- Create the Sauce Mixture
- Pour in both the BBQ sauce and ranch dressing directly over the warmed chicken allowing the heat to activate the flavors. Stir continuously to coat all the chicken pieces evenly and cook for another 2 minutes until everything is heated through. You'll notice the sauce becoming slightly more fragrant as the heat releases the aromatics.
- Combine Everything
- Add your drained pasta and broccoli directly to the skillet with the saucy chicken. Using tongs or a large spoon gently fold everything together until all pasta pieces are coated with the BBQ ranch sauce. Ensure the ingredients are distributed evenly throughout for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Melt the Cheese
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar evenly across the top of your pasta mixture. Cover the skillet with a tight fitting lid to create a mini oven environment allowing the cheese to melt perfectly without drying out the pasta. Wait 2 3 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and slightly bubbly. Finish with a final seasoning of salt and pepper to taste.
Pin it
The BBQ sauce is really the heart of this recipe. I've experimented with everything from sweet honey BBQ to spicy chipotle varieties, and each creates an entirely different flavor profile. My children particularly love when I use a maple bourbon BBQ sauce that adds a subtle sweetness that complements the ranch perfectly.
Make Ahead Tips
This pasta dish maintains its quality remarkably well when prepared in advance. Make it up to two days ahead and store in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The flavors actually deepen and meld together beautifully overnight. When reheating, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to refresh the sauce if it seems dry, then heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until just warmed through.
Customization Options
The basic recipe framework welcomes endless variations to suit your preferences or use what you already have on hand. Swap the broccoli for other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even frozen peas. The chicken can be replaced with leftover turkey, ground beef, or make it vegetarian with chickpeas or black beans. For a spicier version, add a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce mixture.
Serving Suggestions
This pasta dish stands beautifully on its own, but pairs wonderfully with simple sides. Serve alongside a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta. Garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment for soaking up extra sauce. For summer dinners, try serving slightly chilled with fresh sliced tomatoes and cucumbers on the side for a refreshing contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute rotini or penne with any similar short pasta, such as fusilli or farfalle. The cooking time may vary slightly, so check the package directions.
- → What type of BBQ sauce works best?
Use your favorite BBQ sauce for this pasta. Both sweet and smoky varieties work well, depending on your flavor preference.
- → Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely! Add frozen broccoli directly to the boiling pasta during the last 3 minutes of cooking for an easy substitute.
- → How can I make this dish healthier?
Opt for whole wheat pasta, use reduced-fat cheddar cheese, and choose light ranch dressing to make this meal a bit lighter.
- → Can I prepare this meal in advance?
Yes, prepare the components ahead of time, store them separately, and combine them when ready to eat. Reheat in a skillet for best results.