Dinner

One-Pot Bold BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe

Name: One-Pot Bold BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 12 oz rotini or penne pasta; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup BBQ sauce; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup diced red onion; Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

ByMatteo Rossi January 27, 2026January 27, 2026

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This One-Pot Bold BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. With tender shredded chicken, smoky BBQ sauce, and tangy ranch dressing, it combines comfort and zest in every bite. Plus, it all cooks together in one pot for easy cleanup.

The image shows a close-up of a bowl full of spiral pasta covered in a creamy orange sauce. The twisted pasta pieces are thickly coated and mixed with small bits of what looks like shredded meat or chicken, and tiny purple pieces of onion. The sauce has a smooth texture with visible black pepper flakes scattered throughout. The bowl is white, placed on a white marbled surface, and the photo is taken very close to the food, filling the whole frame with the creamy pasta dish, photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb cooked chicken, shredded
12 oz rotini or penne pasta
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup diced red onion
Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot over medium heat, combine the shredded chicken, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.
Step 2: Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, and uncooked pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
Step 3: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and diced red onion until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy and well combined.
Step 4: Serve the pasta hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired for a fresh pop of color and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, try adding a splash of smoked paprika or chipotle powder.
Use rotisserie chicken to save prep time.
Swap cheddar for pepper jack or monterey jack for a different cheesy twist.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added texture and nutrition.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens.

How to Serve

The image shows a close-up of a bowl filled with spiral pasta coated in a creamy orange sauce. The pasta looks soft and well mixed with small bits of herbs and seasoning scattered throughout. The sauce appears smooth and thick, covering each piece of pasta evenly, giving a rich and appetizing look. The bowl is white, and the background has a white marbled texture, making the colors of the dish stand out. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use uncooked chicken instead of cooked shredded chicken?

It’s best to use cooked chicken for this recipe since the pasta cooks in one pot. If using raw chicken, cook it separately first to ensure it’s fully cooked and tender.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Rotini or penne are ideal as their shapes hold the creamy sauce well. You can also use other short pasta like rigatoni or farfalle if you prefer.