Ranch Chicken Broccoli Pasta Quick and Tasty Meal

Ingredients

• 2 cups penne pasta
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• to taste salt and pepper
• optional crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Begin by cooking the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. About 2-3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the pot. This will cook the broccoli perfectly while the pasta finishes.
2. Drain the pasta and broccoli, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown.
4. When the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the chicken. Pour in the ranch dressing, and stir to combine everything thoroughly.
6. Reduce heat to low and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan over the top. Stir gently until the cheese is melted and everything is nicely coated.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or ranch dressing as desired.
8. Serve warm.