Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch-flavored sauce. Perfectly cooked rotini pasta is smothered in a rich cheddar cheese sauce, making this dish a family favorite. Ideal for a weeknight dinner, this easy pasta recipe is packed with savory flavors that everyone will love. Whether you’re craving a quick and satisfying meal or preparing for a special gathering, this creamy pasta with chicken and bacon is sure to impress. Pair it with garlic bread or a side salad for the perfect dinner.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 6 strips of bacon
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 cups uncooked rotini pasta (or your preferred pasta)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 2 cups half-and-half
• 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix

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Instructions

Cook the Bacon

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon over low heat. Cooking it slowly allows for a crispy texture. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and set aside. Reserve the bacon drippings in a small bowl and wipe the skillet clean. Roughly chop the bacon once cooled.

Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice and Season the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into 2-3 thinner slices each. Pat the chicken dry and season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings (or olive/vegetable oil) in the skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken slices for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet, set aside, and let rest for 5 minutes before cutting into bite-sized cubes.

Boil the Pasta

1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini pasta according to package directions. Drain once cooked and set aside.

Make the Sauce

1. Prepare the Sauce Base: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for 1 minute. Add the flour and stir continuously for another minute to form a roux.
2. Add the Half-and-Half: Heat the half-and-half in the microwave for 40 seconds to temper it, then slowly add it to the skillet in splashes, stirring as you go. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
3. Season and Thicken: Stir in the ranch dressing seasoning and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, mixing until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. The sauce will continue to thicken as it sits.

Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Bacon

1. Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, gently stirring to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Add the cubed chicken and heat through.
2. Garnish and Serve: Stir the chopped bacon into the sauce or sprinkle it on top for extra flavor and crunch. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy and Flavorful: The rich, creamy sauce combined with ranch seasoning and sharp cheddar makes for a mouthwatering dish.
• Bacon Goodness: Who doesn’t love bacon? Its crispy texture adds an irresistible crunch and smoky flavor.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this pasta dish is perfect for a busy weeknight or a comforting weekend meal.

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Tips

• Cook Bacon Slowly: Low and slow is the key to perfectly crispy bacon. Don’t rush the cooking process.
• Rest the Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting to retain its juices and keep it tender.
• Stir the Sauce Gently: When adding the half-and-half and cheese, stir carefully to avoid curdling the sauce.
• Pasta Texture: Be sure to undercook the pasta slightly to prevent it from becoming mushy once combined with the sauce.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for a different flavor.
• Use Different Pasta: Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne, fusilli, or farfalle.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach, peas, or broccoli for extra nutrition and color.
• Substitute Bacon: For a leaner option, try using turkey bacon or omit the bacon entirely for a vegetarian version.
• Cream Alternatives: Use whole milk or a dairy-free milk alternative for a lighter sauce.

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FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, you can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken. Just add it to the sauce after heating through.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This pasta is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce, chicken, and bacon ahead of time, then combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
While the dish can be frozen, the sauce may not be as creamy after reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but freezing is an option for future meals.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich and creamy pasta.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread or a toasted baguette to scoop up every last bit of the creamy sauce.
• Wine Pairing: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio works wonderfully with this dish for a well-rounded meal.

Enjoy this indulgent and creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal!