Description
This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a mouthwatering, rich, and indulgent dish featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch-infused sauce. With a perfect balance of savory flavors and creamy texture, this pasta dish is a sure crowd-pleaser for any dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 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 minced garlic
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Set aside, reserving the drippings. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces.
- Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear in the bacon drippings over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Let the chicken rest, then cube it.
- Boil the Pasta: Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic. Add the flour and cook for a minute, then gradually add the half and half while stirring. Stir in the ranch seasoning and shredded cheese, continuing to stir until the sauce is smooth.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, then add the cubed chicken. Toss everything together and garnish with the chopped bacon. Serve warm.
Notes
- Customization: Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes, cheese types, or even add vegetables for a nutritional boost.
- Dietary Adjustments: To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and check that your ranch seasoning is gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, try dairy-free alternatives for cheese and cream, though the texture and taste of the sauce may vary slightly.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. The pasta absorbs more flavor over time, so the leftovers are often even better. If the sauce thickens when reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore its creamy consistency.
- Serving Suggestions: To balance the richness of the dish, serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. This adds a refreshing contrast and colorful variety to your meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, Creamy Pasta, Chicken Pasta, Bacon Pasta, Ranch Pasta, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner