Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. This creamy and flavorful pasta is easy to make and will surely become a family favorite in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
- The combination of savory bacon, tender chicken, and creamy ranch sauce creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- This recipe can be whipped up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead.
Ingredient Notes:
- Cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds a rich and cheesy flavor to the dish.
- Strips of bacon: Gives a smoky and crispy texture.
- Salt/Pepper: Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
- Onion powder and Italian seasoning: Adds depth of flavor.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Provides a lean source of protein.
- Uncooked pasta (Rotini recommended): Perfect for holding the creamy sauce.
- Butter, flour, garlic, half and half, dry ranch dressing seasoning mix: Creates a creamy and flavorful ranch sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the bacon until crispy, then set aside.
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until no longer pink, then set aside.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
- In a separate pan, melt butter and sauté garlic. Stir in flour and cook for a minute.
- Slowly whisk in the half and half, then add the ranch seasoning mix.
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the sauce. Mix well.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and let it melt.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Helpful Tips:
- For a lighter version, use turkey bacon or turkey sausage.
- You can use any type of pasta you prefer, but rotini holds the sauce well.
- Make a double batch and freeze half for an easy meal later on.
Expert Tips for the Best Results:
- Make sure to season the chicken well for maximum flavor.
- Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melting consistency.
- Let the pasta sit for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad. Pair it with a glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea.
Storage and Reheating Tips:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe? Yes, you can use leftover rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken for a quicker option.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Feel free to swap the cheddar cheese for mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor.
Conclusion:
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a versatile and delicious dish that is sure to please the whole family. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out! Share your feedback and enjoy this comforting meal.
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Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Total Time: 40 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A delicious and comforting pasta dish loaded with chicken, bacon, and ranch flavors, all coated in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 strips bacon
- Salt/Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (Rotini recommended)
Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: Cook bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook until done, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Make Sauce: In a pan, melt butter, add flour and garlic, then slowly whisk in half and half. Stir in ranch seasoning mix and simmer until thickened.
- Combine: In a large bowl, mix cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, and sauce. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve: Garnish with additional cheese and bacon if desired, then serve hot.
Notes
- You can add more vegetables like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the seasoning and ranch dressing mix according to your taste preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 560 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg