Description: This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor from crispy bacon, tender chicken, and zesty ranch seasoning, it’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
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, penne, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Preparation:
Before diving into the cooking process, a little preparation goes a long way. Gather all your ingredients, ensuring you have everything within easy reach. Shred the cheddar cheese and set it aside. Measure out the spices and ranch seasoning. This streamlined approach will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Begin by cooking the bacon. Place the bacon strips in a large skillet over low heat. Cooking bacon at a low temperature allows the fat to render slowly, resulting in crispy, evenly cooked bacon. Cook until the bacon is golden brown and crisp. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Reserve the bacon drippings – they’re liquid gold! Pour the drippings into a small, heatproof bowl. Once the bacon has cooled slightly, roughly chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside for later.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Prepare the chicken breasts by slicing them horizontally into thinner cutlets (2-3 slices per breast). This ensures they cook quickly and evenly. Pat the chicken slices dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a beautiful sear when cooking. Season both sides of the chicken with a light sprinkling of salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Don’t be shy with the seasoning, as it’s crucial for building flavor.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of the reserved bacon drippings in the same skillet over medium-high heat. If you prefer, you can substitute olive oil or vegetable oil for the bacon drippings. However, using bacon drippings adds a smoky depth of flavor that complements the dish perfectly. Once the oil is shimmering hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken slices in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sear the chicken on each side for 3-4 minutes, or until a golden-brown crust has developed and the chicken is cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. Let it rest for 5 minutes, then cut it into bite-sized cubes.
Step 4: Boil the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente (firm to the bite). Once the pasta is cooked, drain it well in a colander. Set aside.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken (no need to clean it!), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Add the flour to the skillet and use a silicone spatula to stir continuously for 1 minute. This creates a roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
In a microwave-safe bowl, heat the half and half in the microwave for about 40 seconds, or until it’s warmed through. Tempering the half and half prevents it from curdling when added to the hot skillet. Slowly add the warmed half and half to the skillet in splashes, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble, then reduce the heat to low.
Add the dry ranch dressing seasoning mix and stir to combine. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until it’s melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Remember that the sauce will continue to thicken as it sits.
Step 6: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Bacon
Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the creamy ranch sauce. Use a silicone spatula to carefully combine the pasta and sauce, ensuring that every strand of pasta is coated in the delicious sauce. Add the cooked chicken cubes to the skillet and allow them to heat through.
Finally, add most of the cooked bacon to the pasta, reserving a small amount for garnish. Stir to combine.
Step 7: Serve
Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta immediately, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several compelling reasons:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy ranch dressing, smoky bacon, savory chicken, and sharp cheddar cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Ultimate Comfort Food: This dish is pure comfort food. The creamy, cheesy sauce, tender pasta, and hearty ingredients create a satisfying and comforting meal that’s perfect for cozy nights in.
- Easy to Make: Despite its impressive flavors, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, it’s a great option for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: This recipe is highly customizable. You can easily swap out the pasta shape, add vegetables like broccoli or spinach, or use different types of cheese to suit your preferences.
- Versatile: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is versatile enough to be served as a main course, a side dish, or even a potluck contribution. It’s also great for meal prepping and leftovers.
Serving Suggestions:
- Side Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: A warm slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add a healthy element to the meal.
- Tomato Slices: Fresh tomato slices can provide a bright and refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
Tips:
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cook the pasta until al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Temper the Half and Half: Tempering the half and half before adding it to the skillet prevents it from curdling.
- Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting smoothly. Shredding your own cheese ensures a creamier sauce.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or ranch seasoning to suit your preferences.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat the sauce and add the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon when ready to serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Note: Nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
- Calories: Approximately 650-750 per serving
- Protein: 35-45 grams per serving
- Sodium: 800-1000 mg per serving
Conclusion:
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delectable and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy, cheesy sauce, crispy bacon, and tender chicken, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple instructions, and get ready to enjoy a truly unforgettable meal!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta? A1: Absolutely! While rotini is a popular choice, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, farfalle (bowties), or even elbow macaroni. Just be sure to cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente.
Q2: Can I make this recipe with a different type of meat? A2: Yes, you can easily substitute the chicken with other types of meat. Cooked sausage, ground beef, or even shrimp would all work well in this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q3: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? A3: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to be vegetarian. Simply omit the chicken and bacon, and consider adding some vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.
Q4: How can I make this recipe spicier? A4: If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce, or use a spicy ranch seasoning mix. You could also add a few dashes of hot sauce to the finished dish.
Q5: How long will leftovers last? A5: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken upon standing.
