why make this recipe
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of savory chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings with friends and family. It’s filling, flavorful, and easy to prepare, making it a favorite for many.
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 it is crisp. Once done, set it aside and reserve the drippings. Roughly chop the bacon once it cools.
Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken in the reserved bacon drippings over medium-high heat until it is golden and cooked through. After cooking, let it rest, then cube the chicken.
Boil the Pasta: In a pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until it is al dente. Drain the pasta once cooked.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic. Add the flour and stir to combine. Gradually add in the half and half, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the ranch seasoning and cheese until everything is well blended.
Combine: Add the drained pasta to the sauce, then fold in the cubed chicken. Garnish with the chopped bacon and serve warm.
how to serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta warm, perhaps with a side salad or some garlic bread. You can sprinkle extra cheddar cheese on top for added flavor. Enjoy it as a hearty main dish that everyone will love.
how to store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing it. Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container.
tips to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting texture.
- Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
- Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning to suit your taste.
variation
You can make this dish with different types of pasta or switch out the chicken for shrimp or turkey. You could also try adding some buffalo sauce for a spicy twist!
FAQs
1. Can I use canned chicken instead of fresh?
Yes, canned chicken can be a convenient substitute. Just drain it well and add it in when mixing with the sauce.
2. Is there a way to make this dish lighter?
You can use low-fat cheese and reduced-fat half and half to cut down on calories.
3. What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
This dish pairs well with a green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
A delicious and comforting dish that combines savory chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 strips bacon
- Salt and 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
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until it is crisp. Once done, set it aside and reserve the drippings. Roughly chop the bacon once it cools.
- Prepare the chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken in the reserved bacon drippings over medium-high heat until it is golden and cooked through. After cooking, let it rest, then cube the chicken.
- Boil the pasta: In a pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until it is al dente. Drain the pasta once cooked.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic. Add the flour and stir to combine. Gradually add in the half and half, stirring constantly until the mixture is smooth. Stir in the ranch seasoning and cheese until everything is well blended.
- Combine: Add the drained pasta to the sauce, then fold in the cubed chicken. Garnish with the chopped bacon and serve warm.
Notes
For added flavor, serve with a side salad or garlic bread. Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melting texture.