Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Introduction

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta combines creamy, tangy ranch dressing with tender chicken and crispy bacon, making it a beloved dish in many households. This recipe is your go-to solution for those busy weeknights when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Rich, flavorful, and super easy to whip up, it’s perfect for family dinners or even casual gatherings with friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s become a staple in my house!

Why make this recipe

Top Reasons to Try This Dish

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta isn’t just another simple weeknight meal; it’s a delightful mix of flavors that caters to various taste buds. Here are a few reasons you’ll want to put this dish on your dinner table:

• Quick and Easy: Start to finish, this meal is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those who are busy after a long day!
• Budget-Friendly: With minimal ingredients, you can create a delicious, hearty meal without breaking the bank.
• Kid-Approved: The familiar flavors of ranch and bacon are usually a hit with kids, making it easier to get them to eat their dinner.

“I made this recipe for our family movie night, and it was gone in minutes! Everyone loved it!” – A happy home chef

How to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

This dish is simple and straightforward, so you won’t feel overwhelmed. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll be doing:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions and drain.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced chicken until it’s fully cooked.
3. Stir in crumbled cooked bacon.
4. Add ranch dressing and the drained pasta, mixing everything well.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese and stir until melted.
6. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
7. Garnish your dish with chopped parsley, and you’re ready to serve!

Ingredients

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Gather these simple ingredients for a flavor-packed meal:

• 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini work great)
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Feel free to swap out the ranch dressing for a lighter version or use turkey bacon for a healthier twist.

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Directions

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Cook the Bacon: Add the cooked and crumbled bacon to the skillet, mixing it with the chicken.
4. Combine Everything: Stir in the ranch dressing until everything is well-coated, then add the cooked pasta.
5. Melt the Cheese: Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the mixture and stir until the cheese is melted and gooey.
6. Season: Taste your dish and add salt and pepper to your liking.
7. Garnish: Finish off with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for both color and flavor.

How to serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Perfect Pairings for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

This creamy pasta dish can stand alone as a filling meal, but you can elevate it even more! Here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Salads: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pasta beautifully.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crispy garlic bread to scoop up those delicious bacon and ranch flavors.
• Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus add a healthy touch to your plate.

How to store

Best Way to Store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

To keep your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze this dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before heating.
• Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or extra ranch dressing to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Tips to make

Pro Chef Tips

Want to take your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta to the next level? Here are some expert tips:

• Cook the Chicken Right: Season your chicken with basic spices like garlic powder or paprika while cooking for an extra flavor boost.
• Bacon Lovers’ Dream: For extra crunch, consider using thick-cut bacon or even frying the bacon in the pan before adding the chicken.
• Cheese Options: Mix in different cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique flavor profile.

Variations

Creative twists

Don’t be afraid to add your own spin on this meal! Here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite plant-based protein.
• Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Herbaceous Flair: Mix in fresh spinach or kale for an added nutrition boost and a pop of color.

FAQ

Common Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?

   • Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great substitute and adds extra nutrients.

2. Is this recipe kid-friendly?

   • Yes, kids typically love the combination of bacon and ranch. It’s a perfect meal for picky eaters!

3. What can I substitute for ranch dressing?

   • You can opt for a homemade ranch dressing, a similar creamy dressing, or even a light vinaigrette for a healthier version.

With just a handful of ingredients and a simple method, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta can easily become a beloved dish in your meal rotation. Give it a try, and let the flavors speak for themselves!

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Pin Recipe

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Description

A quick and easy creamy pasta dish with chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing, perfect for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions and drain.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced chicken until it’s no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the cooked and crumbled bacon to the skillet, mixing it with the chicken.
4. Stir in the ranch dressing until well-coated, then add the cooked pasta.
5. Sprinkle cheddar cheese over the mixture and stir until melted.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

Notes

For a healthier twist, use turkey bacon or a lighter ranch dressing.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 100mg

Keywords: chicken, pasta, ranch, bacon, quick meal, family dinner