Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Description

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food! Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, it combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich cheddar cheese sauce. It’s a family-friendly meal that’s easy to make and sure to satisfy everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

For the Pasta and Sauce:

  • 12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work best)
  • 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cups milk (whole or 2% recommended)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

For the Chicken and Bacon:

  • 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 6 slices of bacon, chopped
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for cooking

Optional Add-Ins and Toppings:

  • ½ cup chopped green onions
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Extra shredded cheese for topping
  • Crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
  3. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and drain the rest. Set pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Bacon

  1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, cook chopped bacon until crisp. Remove and drain on paper towels.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

  1. In the skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes to make a roux (this helps thicken the sauce).
  3. Gradually pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes.
  4. Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and parsley if using.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Add the cooked chicken and bacon into the cheese sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
  2. Toss in the cooked pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
  3. Mix well until the pasta is fully coated with creamy, cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Serve

  1. Serve immediately, garnished with extra cheese, green onions, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
  2. For a restaurant-style presentation, plate the pasta in shallow bowls and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

Why you’ll love this recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Family-Friendly: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters will love.
  • Customizable: Easily adaptable to your preferences with different cheeses, vegetables, or spices.
  • Comfort Food: The ultimate in creamy, cheesy, and satisfying pasta dishes.
  • Versatile: Great for a quick dinner or a potluck with friends.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad.
  • Top with extra shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
  • Pair with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Tips:

  • Don’t overcook the pasta; al dente is best for maintaining texture.
  • For a richer sauce, use whole milk or add a splash of heavy cream.
  • Shred your own cheese for the best melting and flavor.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a little more milk or pasta water to thin it out.
  • Feel free to substitute other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheddar blend.
  • For a smoky flavor, use smoked bacon.
  • Add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrients.

Preparation Time:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information:

(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Calories: Approximately 650-750 per serving
  • Protein: 40-50g per serving
  • Sodium: 800-1000mg per serving

Conclusion

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a surefire hit for any occasion. It’s creamy, cheesy, and bursting with flavor, making it a meal that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to share with friends, this recipe is a winner. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a bowl of pure deliciousness!

Questions and Answers

Q1: Can I use different types of pasta?

A: Absolutely! While penne, rotini, or shells work well, you can use any pasta shape you prefer. Just make sure to cook it al dente.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can! Prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine them when you’re ready to serve. Add a little extra milk or pasta water when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.

Q3: Can I use pre-cooked chicken or bacon?

A: Yes, you can! This will save you some time. Just make sure to heat them up before adding them to the sauce.

Q4: Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

A: Of course! Bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes would all be great additions.

Q5: Can I freeze this pasta dish?

A: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish because the sauce may separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

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