Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the comforting flavors of chicken, crispy bacon, and ranch dressing all in a creamy pasta base. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly delicious, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s customizable too, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 630
Protein: 32g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 32g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 830mg
Why Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is not just indulgent; it also offers a balanced meal packed with protein from the chicken and bacon. The addition of ranch dressing provides a burst of flavor that makes this dish so satisfying. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe—you can easily adjust it to suit your family’s tastes by adding seasonal vegetables or using different types of cheese. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe fits right in.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Step by Step
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 tablespoons flour
8 oz pasta
1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
1/2 cup ranch dressing
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Directions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add milk while whisking until thickened.
- Stir in cheddar cheese, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Add cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing; mix well.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve warm.
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
For a complete meal, serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta with a fresh garden salad and some crusty garlic bread. You might also consider pairing it with steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables for added nutrition. A light drizzle of extra ranch dressing on top can enhance the flavor even further!
How to Store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, until warmed through. If you want to freeze it, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It should keep for up to two months. To reheat from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge and then warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Expert Tips for Cooking Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce.
- Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.
- Experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a flavor twist.
- Cook your bacon in the oven for an easier cleanup and evenly cooked strips.
- Feel free to add your favorite sautéed veggies, like spinach or bell peppers, to boost nutrition.
Delicious Variations of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes into the sauce.
- Toss in some fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an herby explosion of flavor.
- Go vegetarian by omitting the chicken and bacon and adding sautéed mushrooms and zucchini instead.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is an irresistible dish that is sure to become a new favorite in your home. Its rich flavors and creamy texture make it a standout meal, while its simplicity means you can whip it up any night of the week. Don’t miss out on trying this delicious and versatile recipe!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta Use your preferred pasta shape.
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled Crisp in the oven for even cooking.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing Homemade or store-bought.
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded Substitute with other cheeses if desired.
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons flour
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
- Gradually add milk while whisking until thickened.
- Stir in cheddar cheese, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper until smooth.
Combining Ingredients
- Add cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing; mix well.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Serve warm.
