Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe

Introduction:

Indulge in this rich and creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, a delightful comfort food that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. This dish brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a decadent cheese sauce flavored with ranch seasoning, all tossed with perfectly cooked rotini pasta. It’s a satisfying meal that combines the flavors of smoky bacon, savory ranch, and creamy cheese, creating a delicious balance of textures and tastes. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, this hearty pasta is sure to become a family favorite!

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Ingredients:

• 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

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Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over low heat until it becomes crisp and golden. This process should take around 8-10 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet, reserving the bacon drippings for later use. Place the cooked bacon on a paper towel to cool, then roughly chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts into thinner, even pieces for quick and even cooking. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Using the same skillet with the reserved bacon drippings, sear the chicken over medium-high heat. Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and golden brown on the outside. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting it into cubes.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta) and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour and whisk constantly to form a roux. Cook the roux for another 2-3 minutes until it turns slightly golden.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Gradually whisk in 2 cups of half and half, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to whisk until the sauce thickens slightly, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of dry ranch dressing seasoning mix and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Whisk until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked and drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly. Then, gently fold in the cubed chicken and chopped bacon. Mix everything together until the pasta, chicken, and bacon are well combined with the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Serve
Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta warm, garnished with additional chopped bacon, fresh parsley, or even a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness!

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Cooking Notes:

• Pasta Choice: Rotini is a great choice for this recipe because its twists and grooves hold onto the sauce well, but you can substitute with penne, rigatoni, or any pasta of your choice.
• Bacon Tip: Cooking the bacon low and slow allows it to render out more fat and crisp up nicely, giving you the perfect texture to complement the creamy sauce.
• Chicken: Letting the chicken rest before cutting helps retain its juices, making the meat more tender and flavorful.
• Half and Half Substitute: If you don’t have half and half, you can use a mixture of equal parts whole milk and heavy cream, or simply use whole milk for a lighter sauce.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Serve this pasta dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh Caesar salad for a complete meal.
• Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat or mix in some chopped green onions for added freshness.
• For a heartier meal, you can add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli into the sauce.

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Tips:

• Make it Lighter: You can substitute the half and half with low-fat milk and reduce the amount of cheese to make the dish a bit lighter while still maintaining the creamy texture.
• Extra Crunch: For added crunch, top the pasta with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed crackers before serving.
• Leftovers: This pasta stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to keep it creamy.

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Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

30 minutes

Total Time:

50 minutes

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Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 552 kcal
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 970mg

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Conclusion:

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and cheesy flavors, guaranteed to satisfy your cravings. The ranch seasoning adds a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and melty cheddar cheese. Best of all, it’s easy to prepare and comes together in under an hour, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or weekend indulgence. Whether you’re serving this to your family or guests, it’s a meal everyone will love. Don’t forget to garnish with extra bacon for that finishing touch of smoky goodness!

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