Description

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta combines the comforting flavors of creamy ranch, savory bacon, and tender chicken, all tossed with hearty pasta. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night in. It marries the richness of cheese and the zest of ranch seasoning to create a mouth-watering sauce that clings to every noodle. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes, making it a fulfilling meal that satisfies the craving for something creamy, salty, and utterly delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

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

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

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.
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.
Boil the Pasta: Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add flour, then gradually whisk in half and half. Stir in ranch seasoning and shredded cheese until smooth.

Combine: Add cooked pasta to the sauce, then mix in the cubed chicken. Garnish with chopped bacon and serve warm.

Notes

Customization: This recipe is highly adaptable—try different pasta shapes, cheeses, or add vegetables for a nutritional boost.
Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your ranch seasoning is gluten-free. Dairy-free alternatives can be used for the cheese and cream, but note the texture and taste may slightly vary.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth if needed to restore creaminess.
Serving Suggestions: Serve with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for balance and variety.

Preparation Tip: Cooking the bacon and chicken in the same skillet enhances the flavor by allowing the chicken to absorb the smoky bacon drippings.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 552 kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Unsaturated Fat: 13g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 110mg