Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delightful dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table. It’s simple enough for a weekday dinner while being fancy enough to impress guests. With tender pasta, hearty chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch-infused sauce, every bite is a burst of deliciousness. This dish is easily customizable, allowing you to modify ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 620
Protein: 36g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fat: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 950mg
Why Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta stands out for its ease of preparation and ability to satiate even the heartiest of appetites. It’s a one-pot meal that can be whipped up in less than an hour, making it a go-to choice for busy parents or anyone short on time. Plus, the flavors of bacon and ranch are a hit with both kids and adults alike. You can easily adjust this recipe to include your favorite vegetables, making it not just tasty but nutritious as well.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Step by Step
Ingredients
1 pound pasta of your choice, 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded, 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped, 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded, Salt and pepper, to taste, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 3 tablespoons flour, 2 cups milk, 3 tablespoons ranch dressing
Directions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
- Stir in cheddar cheese, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken, bacon, and cooked pasta; mix until well combined.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. You could also complement it with steamed broccoli or a light coleslaw for a refreshing crunch. For an extra kick, serve with a drizzle of extra ranch dressing or some crushed red pepper flakes.
How to Store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to three months. Just remember to defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Expert Tips for Cooking Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Use rotisserie chicken to save time and add flavor.
- Feel free to swap in different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for varied taste.
- If you like a little spice, add jalapeños or hot sauce to your dish.
- For a lighter option, replace regular pasta with whole grain or zoodles.
- Always taste your sauce and adjust seasonings as needed for the best flavor.
Delicious Variations of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Switch things up with a spicy version by adding diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a flavorful kick. For a herbed twist, incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme into the sauce. Alternatively, you can make a vegetarian version by using mushrooms and spinach instead of chicken and bacon, ensuring you still have a satisfying meal.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a dish you won’t want to miss. Its combination of flavors and simplicity makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your home. Dive into the creamy goodness of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta and see how deliciously easy dinner can be!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta of your choice
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded Rotisserie chicken can be used for convenience.
- 1 cup cooked bacon, chopped Cook until crispy.
- 1.5 cups cheddar cheese, shredded Other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack can be used.
- Salt and pepper, to taste Adjust seasoning according to preference.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups milk Use whole or low-fat milk as preferred.
- 3 tablespoons ranch dressing For extra flavor, add more according to taste.
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon until crispy; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in milk and cook until thickened.
- Stir in cheddar cheese, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add chicken, bacon, and cooked pasta; mix until well combined.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
