Introduction
Craving comfort food with a bold, zesty twist? This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate weeknight winner. Loaded with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, tender pasta, and a creamy ranch-infused sauce, it’s the kind of dish that turns an ordinary night into something deliciously memorable.
Great for family dinners, meal prep, or satisfying your cheesy cravings in one hearty bowl.
Ingredients List
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini work great)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 6 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Timing
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
A quick and satisfying one-pot dinner with tons of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with half the ranch seasoning. Cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and set aside. Drain excess fat, leaving about 1 tbsp in the pan. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly pour in milk and cream, whisking constantly until smooth.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted. Add remaining ranch seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add cooked pasta, chicken, and crumbled bacon to the sauce. Toss to combine. Cook for 2–3 more minutes to heat through. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 610
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 35g
- Sodium: 980mg
Based on 6 servings. Nutrition may vary depending on ingredients used.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
- Use turkey bacon or center-cut bacon to reduce fat
- Substitute whole wheat pasta or chickpea pasta
- Use low-fat milk and reduced-fat cheese
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad or steamed broccoli
- Pair with garlic bread or a warm dinner roll
- Great as a leftover lunch the next day
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sauce too thick or thin: Adjust with extra milk or cream
- Overcooked pasta: Cook al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy
- Burning the garlic: Only sauté it briefly to avoid bitterness
Storing Tips for the Recipe
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in airtight container up to 3–4 days
- Freezer: Freeze portions in containers for up to 2 months
- Reheat: Warm gently on stovetop or microwave with a splash of milk
Conclusion
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta combines classic comfort with bold flavors that make it a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s creamy, cheesy, and downright delicious.
Save this recipe for the next time you need a hearty, satisfying meal in a hurry!
FAQs
Q1: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken work great.
Q2: Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the sauce.
Q3: What can I use instead of ranch mix?
Try a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, parsley, and chives for a DIY ranch flavor.
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