Name: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
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

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why make this recipe

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delicious and filling meal that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch-flavored cheese sauce. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want to impress your family and friends. This recipe is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients that many people already have at home. Plus, who can resist the classic combination of chicken and bacon?

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

Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until it gets crispy. Set it aside, and keep some drippings in the skillet. Once cooled, chop the bacon roughly.
Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken in the bacon drippings over medium-high heat until it’s golden and cooked through. Let it rest, then cube it.
Boil the Pasta: Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until it’s al dente. Once done, drain it.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic. Add the flour, then gradually whisk in the half and half. Stir in the ranch seasoning and cheese until the sauce is smooth.
Combine: Add the drained pasta to the sauce, then mix in the cubed chicken. Top it off with the crispy bacon. Serve warm.

how to serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta warm in bowls. You can sprinkle some extra cheese or chopped green onions on top for added flavor and color. It pairs well with a simple side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to eat them within three to four days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of milk if it looks too thick.

tips to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Use rotini pasta for the best texture, as the sauce will cling to the curves.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
Make sure to season the chicken well for more flavor.
Adjust the ranch seasoning to your taste—add more if you love that flavor!

variation

For a lighter version, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. You can also use whole-wheat pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a healthier option.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken ahead of time. Just mix it with the pasta when you’re ready to serve.

3. What can I use instead of half and half?
You can use heavy cream or a mixture of milk and cream for a similar effect, but it may affect the richness of the sauce.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta