This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delicious, creamy, and cheesy dish that’s packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and ranch-seasoned cheese sauce makes this a perfect meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 6 strips bacon
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, rigatoni, bow tie, etc.)
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 cups half and half (can substitute whole milk)
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Instructions:
- Prep Ingredients: Shred the cheddar cheese and set it aside. Cut the bacon into small squares.
- Cook Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, fry the bacon pieces until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Cook Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. In the same skillet with the bacon grease, cook the chicken over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then cut it into bite-sized pieces.
- Cook Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Slowly add the half and half, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and the ranch dressing seasoning mix. Cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for a few minutes until heated through.
- Serve: Just before serving, crumble the crispy bacon over the top of the pasta. Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations:
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy version.
- Vegetable Addition: Stir in steamed broccoli or spinach for added color and nutrition.
- Different Cheeses: Use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Parmesan for a different flavor profile.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: 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 if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the texture of the sauce may change slightly. If freezing, store in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes, rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken can be used to save time. Just add it to the sauce with the pasta.
Q: What’s a good substitute for ranch seasoning mix?
A: You can make your own by mixing dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of dried chives.
Q: Can I use heavy cream instead of half and half?
A: Yes, heavy cream will make the sauce even richer, but you can also use whole milk for a lighter option.
Q: How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
A: If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a little more milk or half and half until it reaches your desired consistency.
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its creamy ranch sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon, it’s a satisfying meal that’s easy to make and enjoy!