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Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 80 reviews

A creamy and savory Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch-flavored cheese sauce with perfectly cooked rotini pasta. This comforting dish is perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 6 strips bacon

Cheese & Dairy

  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 cups half and half
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Dry Ingredients & Seasonings

  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (Rotini recommended)
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until crispy. Once done, remove and place on paper towels to drain excess fat. Crumble or chop into bite-sized pieces after cooled.
  2. Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. In the same skillet with some reserved bacon fat, cook the chicken over medium heat until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing into strips or bite-sized pieces.
  3. Cook the pasta: In a separate large pot, boil salted water and cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. Make the sauce base: In the skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
  5. Add liquid and seasoning: Gradually whisk in the half and half, ensuring the mixture is smooth without lumps. Add the dry ranch dressing seasoning mix and continue stirring the sauce until it thickens, around 3-5 minutes.
  6. Add cheese: Lower the heat and slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
  7. Combine ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and crumbled bacon into the sauce. Stir well to coat all components evenly with the rich ranch cheese sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  8. Serve: Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or extra cheese for added flavor and presentation.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute half and half with milk or a lower-fat dairy alternative.
  • If you prefer a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
  • Rotini pasta works best as it holds the creamy sauce well, but penne or fusilli can be good alternatives.
  • Make sure to cook the chicken fully but avoid overcooking to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on stovetop or microwave.

Find it online: https://amandafood.com/creamy-chicken-bacon-ranch-pasta-recipe/