Description
Chicken Ranch Macaroni and Cheese is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender ranch-seasoned chicken with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with crispy bacon. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a gathering, offering a delicious blend of savory flavors with a hint of tanginess from the ranch seasoning.
Ingredients
Scale
Ranch Chicken
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 1 package (about 2 tablespoons) dry ranch seasoning
Macaroni and Cheese
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups whole milk, warmed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning
- ½ cup white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- ¼ cup mozzarella cheese, freshly grated
- 8 ounces (2 cups uncooked) elbow macaroni, cooked al dente and drained
- 4 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Ranch Chicken
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In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken and ranch seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken in batches. Cook 1-2 minutes on each side (or until golden brown and internal temperature is 165°F). Remove from heat and tent with aluminum foil to keep warm.
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Wipe out the skillet to use for the macaroni and cheese.
Macaroni and Cheese
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In the skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
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Add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes (or until the mixture turns light brown).
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Remove from heat and gradually pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly.
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Return the pan to the heat and whisk another 3-5 minutes, or until thickened.
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Add the salt, garlic powder, and ranch seasoning. Stir to combine and remove from heat.
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Add the cheeses, stirring to melt.
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Pour the cooked noodles over the top of the sauce. Stir to combine.
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Season with salt and pepper, and top with the chicken, bacon, and chopped parsley.
Notes
For the best results, use freshly grated cheese to ensure a smooth, creamy sauce. Customize this dish to suit your dietary needs by making it gluten-free, vegetarian, or spicier with a few simple tweaks.