Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

What could be better than a cozy bowl of creamy pasta that warms your heart and soul? Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is pure comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This dish combines familiar flavors with an irresistible cheesy sauce, making it not just a meal, but a memory in the making. It’s a dish that’s easy to whip up, yet can impress family and friends alike.

At the heart of this dish are some fantastic ingredients. You will find 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese that melt perfectly into the sauce, 6 strips of crispy bacon that add a salty crunch, and tender pieces of boneless skinless chicken breasts seasoned to perfection. Toss in rotini pasta that grabs hold of the creamy sauce, minced garlic for aromatic depth, and a blend of ranch dressing seasoning mix to tie all those flavors together. Each ingredient adds layers of taste that make this dish a standout.

The method is straightforward, making it ideal for both seasoned cooks and those just starting out. You begin by cooking the bacon low and slow until crisp, allowing the drippings to infuse the chicken with flavor. The chicken is then seasoned and seared, while the pasta cooks in salted boiling water. The sauce comes together effortlessly by melting butter, sautéing garlic, and whisking in flour, half and half, and the ranch seasoning. Finally, you combine everything for a dish that is both hearty and satisfying.

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is perfect for chilly nights when you want something warm and comforting. It also shines at potlucks or family gatherings, offering a dish that appeals to all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

• Quick and Easy: With just a few steps, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Comfort Food: Rich, creamy, and filling, it’s the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
• Minimal Ingredients: A handful of common ingredients come together to create a delightful dish.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak it based on your preferences or dietary needs.
• Family Favorite: This recipe is suitable for all ages, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.

Chicken Tips

When selecting chicken for this recipe, opt for boneless skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness and quick cooking time. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider marinating the chicken in some ranch dressing for about 30 minutes before cooking. This adds an extra layer of flavor that will permeate the chicken as it cooks. Look for chicken that is fresh, with no visible bruises, and is stored properly in a refrigerated environment.

Options for Substitutions

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
• Swap cheddar cheese with monterey jack for a different cheese experience.
• Consider replacing half and half with whole milk for a lighter version.
• Substitute bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian take.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive individuals.
• Try adding vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

Cooking the bacon at too high of a heat can cause it to burn instead of crisp up, leading to a bitter taste. Always cook bacon over low heat to render the fat slowly. When preparing the chicken, ensure it’s cut into even pieces to promote uniform cooking. Overcrowding the pan can lead to steaming, instead of searing, so allow enough space for the chicken to brown.

When it comes to boiling the pasta, avoid overcooking it. Cooking it until al dente means it will still have a bit of bite, which is important since it will continue to cook when mixed with the hot sauce. Lastly, when adding the cheese to the sauce, do this off the heat and stir gently while the sauce is still warm to prevent clumping.

What to Serve With Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?

For a well-rounded meal, consider serving this pasta alongside a fresh garden salad, steamed vegetables, or garlic bread. A classic Caesar salad complements the creamy flavors of the dish nicely. You could also offer some crusty bread for sopping up any leftover sauce, making sure every last bite is enjoyed.

Storage Instructions

Store: Leftovers can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Freeze: You can freeze the pasta for up to 2-3 months. Make sure it’s stored in an airtight, freezer-safe container to maintain quality.

Reheat: For stovetop reheating, add a splash of milk or water to help loosen the sauce and reheat over low heat. In the microwave, reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4-6

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 1,200 – 1,600
• Protein: 80 – 100 grams
• Fat: 80 – 100 grams
• Carbohydrates: 100 – 120 grams

Ingredients

• 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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Set aside on a plate and reserve the drippings for later. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces. Season them with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear them in the reserved bacon drippings over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Allow the chicken to rest before cubing it up.

Step 3: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain the pasta but reserve a small cup of the pasta water for later if needed.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet used for the bacon, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the flour and stir for about a minute. Gradually whisk in the half and half until smooth. Stir in the ranch seasoning and cheddar cheese until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Combine

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, mixing well to coat. Then, gently fold in the cubed chicken and garnish with the chopped bacon.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Dish up your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta while it’s still warm. Enjoy it fresh, as it’s best served right away.

In summary, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta recipe brings together a warm, comforting meal that is both delectable and satisfying. It’s perfect for family gatherings or low-key weeknight dinners. I invite you to try this dish, share your thoughts, or explore similar recipes on my blog. Your kitchen adventures await!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them before serving. Just store everything separately in the fridge and warm everything through before serving.

Is it possible to make this recipe low-carb?

Absolutely! You can swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles or any other low-carb alternatives available to make it a healthier option.

How can I make this dish more spicy?

Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for an extra kick of heat.

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