Are you on the lookout for a deliciously satisfying meal that combines familiar flavors with comforting pasta? Look no further than Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta! This delightful dish brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch dressing, creating a symphony of taste that appeals to the whole family.
Moreover, the simplicity of preparation makes it an ideal weeknight dinner. Whether you’re craving a hearty pasta bake or a quick skillet creation, this flavorful concoction is sure to please. Dive into the culinary joy of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, and elevate your dinner experience!
Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta:
To create a delightful Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, gather the following ingredients for a creamy and savory dish that’s sure to impress. You will need:
– 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 (I recommend rotini)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons flour
– 1 tablespoon minced garlic
– 2 cups half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to package instructions. In a separate pan, you will be cooking the bacon until crispy—this is where the magic begins. The rich flavors from the bacon can be complemented by other delicious recipes such as the creamy garlic pasta, which brings additional depth to the dish. Each ingredient in this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta melds beautifully to create a sumptuous meal that everyone will love!
How to Prepare Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta:
To create a delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, start by cooking 2 cups of uncooked rotini pasta according to package instructions. Meanwhile, in a pan over medium heat, cook the 6 strips of bacon until crispy. Once done, remove and crumble the bacon. In the same pan, season two small boneless skinless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked, then slice into pieces.
Next, in the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for a minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of half and half followed by minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of dry ranch dressing mix, and add the shredded 2 cups of cheddar cheese. Combine until smooth. Finally, mix in the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon. Toss well to combine all flavors.
For another comforting chicken dish, try Creamy Garlic Pasta. It’s a wonderful recipe with a few ingredients, perfect for a quick meal!
Nutritional Information for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta:
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta offers a delightful blend of flavors while providing a balance of nutrients. This dish typically contains high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. A standard serving delivers approximately 500-600 calories, making it a satisfying meal for any time of the day.
The protein comes primarily from the chicken and bacon, giving you around 35-40 grams per serving. Meanwhile, the creamy ranch sauce, often made from sour cream or yogurt, adds a rich taste while providing calcium. However, it is essential to be mindful of sodium content, primarily from ranch seasoning and bacon, which can be quite high.
For a nutritious companion dish, consider making a side of delicious slow cooker garlic butter chicken to enhance your meal. For more information on Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, check out this detailed recipe from The Cozy Cook.
Variations of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta:
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta can be easily adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. One popular variation includes the addition of vegetables for boosts in nutrition and flavor. You might consider incorporating sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or even broccoli into your dish. These additions enhance the freshness of the pasta while still holding onto the delicious ranch flavor.
Another twist is using a creamy pasta sauce as your base. For instance, try adding a rich creamy garlic pasta sauce for a burst of extra flavor. This sauce pairs well with chicken and bacon, creating a delightful, indulgent meal that everyone will love.
For those seeking a lighter version, consider substituting traditional pasta with whole grain or even cauliflower pasta. This provides a stunning balance, making your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta both hearty and healthier. With simple adjustments, you can explore countless variations while enjoying this beloved dish.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta:
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delightful meal that pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. To enhance your dining experience, consider serving this creamy pasta dish with a fresh garden salad. A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette will add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta. Additionally, a slice of garlic bread can balance the creaminess and provide a satisfying crunch.
For those seeking a heartier option, try pairing it with a side of broccoli rice cheese and chicken casserole. This dish not only complements the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta perfectly but also adds more protein and veggies to the meal.
Lastly, don’t forget a cool beverage to wash it down! A chilled iced tea or a zesty lemonade will round off this delicious dinner beautifully. Enjoy your culinary adventure with these easy serving suggestions!
Storage Tips for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta:
To keep your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If you love creamy dishes, you might also enjoy trying out creamy garlic pasta for a different flavor twist!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
What ingredients are needed for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
To whip up a delicious batch of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, you’ll require chicken breasts, crispy bacon, ranch seasoning, pasta of your choice, and cream or cheese for that luscious texture. You can enhance the dish with vegetables such as broccoli to create a well-rounded meal.
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
Typically, this delightful pasta dish can be prepared in about 30 minutes. From boiling the pasta to sautéing the chicken and mixing in the ranch flavors, it’s a quick and satisfying meal option for busy weeks.
Can I make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute regular pasta with gluten-free alternatives like chickpea or brown rice pasta. Just ensure your other ingredients, such as the ranch seasoning, are also gluten-free.
What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
This creamy pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables. For a full meal experience, a light and refreshing cucumber salad can complement the rich flavors beautifully.
Can I store leftovers of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the creamy texture.
Are there variations to Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
Definitely! You can experiment by adding different proteins like shrimp or even a vegetarian option such as cauliflower or broccoli for an alternative take. For more comfort food options, you might explore a similar recipe with creamy garlic pasta that offers a different flavor profile.
For additional chicken ideas, check out our creamy garlic pasta for a delicious twist!
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Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta: Irresistibly Delicious and Easy!
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch-flavored sauce over pasta.
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
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons flour
1 tablespoon garlic
minced
2 cups half and half
2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy, then remove and crumble.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning, then cook in the bacon drippings until fully cooked.
- Remove chicken and slice it into strips.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter, then whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually stir in the half and half until smooth, then add the dry ranch seasoning and stir until thickened.
- Add the cooked pasta, cheese, chicken, and bacon to the sauce, stirring until combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra bacon and cheese if desired.
Notes
Feel free to substitute the pasta type with your favorite. For a healthier version, you can use whole wheat pasta.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Method: baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, pasta recipe, chicken recipe, creamy pasta, ranch pasta