Description
This Creamy Cheddar BBQ Ranch Chicken Alfredo combines the rich, cheesy goodness of classic Alfredo with the tangy, smoky flavors of BBQ sauce and ranch dressing. Tender chicken breasts simmered in a luscious sauce with cheddar cheese served over perfectly cooked fettuccine make a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 large chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika if using. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to deglaze the pan and combine flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add Flavors: Stir in the BBQ sauce and ranch dressing, mixing well to create a consistent sauce base. Allow it to simmer for 3-4 minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Incorporate Cheese: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy with melted cheese throughout. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Slice the cooked chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces. Add the chicken and cooked fettuccine into the sauce, tossing gently so everything is evenly coated and heated through for 1-2 minutes.
- Serve: Transfer the creamy cheddar BBQ ranch chicken Alfredo to plates or a serving platter. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired for a touch of color and freshness. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Using smoked paprika adds a nice subtle smoky flavor but can be omitted if not available.
- Feel free to substitute the fettuccine with other pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni.
- For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce may be less rich.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
- To add more vegetables, consider stirring in some sautéed mushrooms or spinach during the sauce-making step.
