Are you looking for a delicious, creamy, and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the perfect combination of creamy ranch sauce, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for comfort food. With the added bonus of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your household.
Let’s dive into how you can make this decadent and easy-to-follow recipe at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This one-pan recipe is perfect for busy nights.
- Flavor Explosion: A mix of ranch seasoning, bacon, and cheese delivers unmatched flavor.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults.
- Versatile: Swap ingredients to fit your preferences or what you have on hand.
Ingredients You Need
Here’s a simple breakdown of what you’ll need for this creamy delight:
- 8 oz penne pasta (or any pasta you have)
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk or any milk substitute)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- Optional: A pinch of black pepper or garlic powder for extra flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create this delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta recipe:
1. Cook the Pasta
- Start by boiling a pot of water and cook your penne pasta (or your preferred pasta) according to the package instructions.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Bacon
- While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chopped bacon and cook until it’s crispy and golden brown.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet, placing it on a paper towel to drain the excess grease.
- Leave about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet for extra flavor.
3. Prepare the Chicken
- In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil and heat over medium-high heat.
- Season the diced chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the pieces are golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Once done, remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce
- Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream and milk.
- Stir in the remaining ranch seasoning, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
- Mix well and allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes creamy and slightly thickened.
5. Combine Everything Together
- Add the cooked pasta, crispy bacon, and seared chicken back into the skillet with the sauce.
- Gently toss everything together to ensure the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy ranch sauce.
6. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and an extra pinch of Parmesan for garnish.
- Serve hot and enjoy the irresistible flavors!
Tips for Perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Cook the Chicken Properly: Make sure the chicken is golden brown to seal in its juices.
- Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon until it’s extra crispy for the best texture.
- Thick Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer slightly before combining the ingredients for a thicker consistency.
- Cheese Selection: You can mix cheeses like cheddar or Gouda for extra flavor.
- Add Veggies: Throw in broccoli, spinach, or peas for added nutrition and color.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the dish. If you’re serving a larger crowd, roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts make for a great addition.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm it up in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring back its creamy consistency.
- Freeze: While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick breakdown of the approximate nutrition per serving (serves 4):
- Calories: 650
- Protein: 38g
- Carbs: 45g
- Fat: 28g
This dish is hearty, protein-packed, and perfect for refueling after a long day!
Why Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a Must-Try
If you’re tired of the same old dinner recipes, this dish is a game-changer. The creamy sauce, paired with the smoky bacon and perfectly cooked chicken, creates a comfort food masterpiece that’s impossible to resist. Plus, it’s quick to make and requires minimal cleanup – ideal for busy schedules and weeknight meals.
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta isn’t just delicious; it’s versatile. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting guests, or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Conclusion
Creamy, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a recipe you’ll return to again and again. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and guaranteed to impress. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself to this unforgettable meal!
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to share it with friends and family. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let us know how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!