Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta combines the comforting flavors of creamy ranch, savory bacon, and tender chicken, all tossed with hearty pasta. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. It marries the richness of cheese and the zest of ranch seasoning to create a mouth-watering sauce that clings to every noodle. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it a fulfilling meal that satisfies the craving for something creamy, salty, and utterly delicious.
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
Instructions
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 after resting.
Boil the Pasta: Cook in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain.
Make the Sauce: In the skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add flour, then gradually add half and half. Stir in ranch seasoning and cheese until smooth.
Combine: Add pasta to the sauce, then chicken, and garnish with bacon. Serve warm.
Notes
- Customization: This recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to switch up the pasta shapes, adjust the cheese types according to what’s available or preferred, and add vegetables to incorporate a nutritional boost.
- Dietary Adjustments: For those looking to make it gluten-free, opt for gluten-free pasta and ensure your ranch seasoning is free of gluten. Dairy-free versions can use alternatives for cheese and cream, though the sauce’s texture and taste may slightly vary.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days when kept in an airtight container. The pasta absorbs more flavor as it sits, making the leftovers sometimes even more delightful. If the sauce thickens too much upon reheating, a splash of milk or broth can help revive its creamy consistency.
- Serving Suggestions: To balance the richness of the dish, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Not only does this add color and variety to your meal, but it also brings a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Preparation Tip: When cooking the bacon and chicken, doing so in the same skillet allows the chicken to pick up the delicious bacon flavors left behind, adding an extra layer of taste to the dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 552 kcal per serving