Description

This creamy and savory pasta dish combines tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and a tangy ranch-flavored sauce, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is quick and easy to make!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta:

12 oz penne or your favorite pasta
Water for boiling
Salt for pasta water

For the Chicken and Bacon:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
½ tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Ranch Sauce:

2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
½ tsp black pepper
¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2️⃣ Cook the turkey bacon:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped turkey bacon and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

3️⃣ Cook the chicken:

In the same skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.

4️⃣ Prepare the ranch sauce:

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.

Stir in the heavy cream and ranch seasoning mix. Bring to a gentle simmer, then whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add black pepper to taste.

5️⃣ Combine the pasta:

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

6️⃣ Assemble and garnish:

Stir in the cooked chicken and crispy turkey bacon. Mix well to combine.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with extra Parmesan cheese, if desired

Notes

Ranch seasoning mix: Store-bought works perfectly, or you can make your own with a blend of dried parsley, dill, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
Cheese substitute: Swap Parmesan for Romano or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4