Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

by

A creamy and indulgent dish, Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta combines the savory flavors of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and a creamy ranch-infused sauce. This recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a hearty meal that everyone will love. Whether you’re craving something comforting or want to impress your guests with a rich and flavorful pasta, this dish delivers.

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, packed with cheese, bacon, and creamy ranch goodness.

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, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless (or pre-cooked chicken)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite variety)
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or homemade ranch seasoning)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken:

  • Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
  • Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces once it’s cool enough to handle.

3. Cook the Bacon:

  • In the same skillet, cook the bacon strips over medium heat until crispy. Once cooked, remove from the skillet, crumble it into pieces, and set it aside.

4. Make the Ranch Sauce:

  • In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter and melt over medium heat.
  • Sprinkle in the flour and stir constantly to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  • Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy.
  • Stir in the ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed.

5. Combine Everything:

  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the ranch sauce and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
  • Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and fully combined.
  • Add the sliced chicken and crumbled bacon to the pasta and gently stir until everything is evenly mixed.

6. Serve:

  • Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta hot, garnished with extra crumbled bacon, chopped parsley, or additional shredded cheddar cheese, if desired.

Tips for the Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta:

  • Customizable Protein: You can swap out the chicken for cooked shrimp, ground turkey, or even a vegetarian option like sautéed mushrooms if you prefer.
  • Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese is the classic choice, you can also try adding mozzarella or parmesan for extra creaminess or sharpness.
  • Add Veggies: For a more balanced dish, add some veggies like broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Make it Spicy: Add a bit of crushed red pepper flakes or a few diced jalapeños for a spicy kick to the sauce.

Conclusion:

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and indulgent dish that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy any appetite. Perfect for busy nights when you need something comforting and filling, this recipe will become a family favorite in no time! Enjoy the perfect blend of smoky bacon, tender chicken, and ranch-flavored sauce over pasta for a meal that’s pure comfort food.

Leave a Comment