Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Why make this recipe
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a comforting dish that combines savory flavors in a creamy sauce. It’s easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or a quick meal during a busy week. This recipe also allows you to enjoy all the classic flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing in one delicious bowl.
How to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
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)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Directions:
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Set aside, reserve drippings, and roughly chop the bacon once cooled.
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear in bacon drippings over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Cube the chicken after resting.
- Boil the Pasta: Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add flour, then gradually pour in half and half. Stir in ranch seasoning and cheese until the sauce is smooth.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, then fold in the chicken and garnish with chopped bacon. Serve warm.
How to serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta warm, directly from the skillet or plated in bowls. You can add extra cheese on top or sprinkle some fresh parsley for a pop of color. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread.
How to store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
To store leftover Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, place it in an airtight container once it cools down. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
Tips to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Make sure to cook the pasta until it is al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or peas for added nutrition and color.
- Adjust the ranch seasoning to taste, adding more for a stronger flavor.
Variation
You can customize the protein by using turkey or cooked sausage instead of chicken. Additionally, swapping out the pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options can also work well.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw and cook it thoroughly before adding it to the dish.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving.
3. What if I don’t have ranch dressing mix?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning, you can create your own with herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder, or simply use a store-bought seasoning blend.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Set aside, reserve drippings, and roughly chop the bacon once cooled.
- Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Sear the chicken in bacon drippings over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Cube the chicken after resting.
- Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add flour, then gradually pour in half and half. Stir in ranch seasoning and cheese until the sauce is smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, then fold in the chicken and garnish with chopped bacon. Serve warm.
Notes
