Description
Indulge in this ultra‑creamy, flavor-packed pasta with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch sauce – a comfort food classic that warms both hearts and bellies!
Ingredients
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2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp Italian seasoning
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6 strips bacon
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2 cups uncooked rotini pasta
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2 Tbsp butter
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2 Tbsp all‑purpose flour
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1 Tbsp minced garlic
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2 cups half‑and‑half
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2 Tbsp dry ranch dressing mix
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2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
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Optional: vegetables (peas, broccoli)
Instructions
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Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over low heat, cook bacon until crisp. Reserve drippings, chop bacon once cooled.
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Prepare the Chicken: Slice chicken thinly, season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear in bacon drippings over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Rest and cube.
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Boil the Pasta: Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain.
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Make the Sauce: In the skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add flour, whisk in half‑and‑half gradually. Stir in ranch mix and cheese until smooth and thickened.
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Combine: Add pasta to sauce, stir in chicken, and top with bacon. Serve warm.
Notes
Customization: Swap pasta shapes, cheese varieties, or stir in vegetables for extra nutrition.
Dietary Adjustments:
GF: Use gluten-free pasta and ranch mix.
DF: Substitute dairy alternatives (may slightly affect texture)
Storage: Keeps in the fridge for up to 3–4 days . Reheat with a splash of milk or broth if thickened.
Serving Suggestions: Pair with roasted veggies or a crisp salad to counter the rich flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course / Dinner
- Method: Skillet / One-pot
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chicken bacon ranch, creamy pasta, comfort food, skillet dinner, quick weeknight meal