Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy ranch sauce. This pasta is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering with friends, offering a satisfying combination of textures and tastes that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or rigatoni)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups half and half
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon:
- Place the bacon strips in a cold skillet and cook over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Reserve the bacon drippings.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and a bit of ranch seasoning. In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of bacon drippings and cook the chicken over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Boil the Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Reserve a cup of pasta water.
- Make the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to form a roux, cooking for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in the half and half, ensuring a smooth mixture. Add the ranch seasoning and stir until well combined. Then, mix in the shredded cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl or the pasta pot, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, crumbled bacon, and the creamy ranch sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with your favorite sides.
Notes
Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different types of cheese. Whether you’re following the classic recipe or making adjustments to suit your dietary needs, this dish is sure to be a hit.