Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

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Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta garnished with herbs, served in a bowl.
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Why Make This Recipe

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners. The combination of cheesy goodness and seasoned chicken is sure to please the whole family.

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:


  1. 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.



  2. 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.



  3. Boil the Pasta: Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain well.



  4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add flour, then slowly whisk in half and half. Stir in ranch seasoning and cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.



  5. Combine: Add the pasta to the sauce, then mix in the chicken and garnish with the bacon. Serve warm.


How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta warm in bowls, and you can sprinkle some extra cheddar cheese or chopped green onions on top for added flavor and presentation. It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.

How to Store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator; it will last for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to loosen the sauce.

Tips to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

  1. Cook the Bacon Well: Ensure the bacon is crispy for added texture.
  2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in the sauce.
  3. Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to add more ranch seasoning or spices to suit your taste.

Variation

You can add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for a healthier twist. Alternatively, try using different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, for a different flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use any pasta you like, including penne or farfalle.

Q: Is this dish kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely! The flavors are mild and comforting, making it a hit with kids.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the components ahead and combine them just before serving for the best results.

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Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Print Recipe

A delightful dish that combines chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce, perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Boil the pasta: Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain well.
  4. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add flour, then slowly whisk in half and half. Stir in ranch seasoning and cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  5. Combine: Add the pasta to the sauce, then mix in the chicken and garnish with the bacon. Serve warm.

Notes

Serve warm with extra cheddar cheese or chopped green onions on top. Pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.

  • Author: aymane-mouraigmail-com-2
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Paleo

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: chicken pasta, bacon pasta, ranch dressing, weeknight dinner, creamy pasta

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