This creamy chicken ranch bacon pasta recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together. It's easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. This recipe balances savory bacon, juicy chicken, and a rich, creamy ranch dressing for a dish that's both satisfying and delicious. Get ready to elevate your pasta night!
What You'll Need:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound bacon, cooked and crumbled (reserve some bacon grease!)
- 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup milk or cream (for extra creaminess)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions for garnish
Equipment:
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet or frying pan
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
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Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, crumbled bacon (saving a little for garnish), ranch dressing, milk/cream, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine.
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Simmer and Thicken (Optional): If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. If you prefer a richer flavor, you can add a tablespoon or two of the bacon grease. Simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with extra bacon crumbles and chopped green onions, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with a variety of pasta shapes, including penne, rotini, fettuccine, farfalle, and even shells. Choose your favorite!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While this pasta is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them with the cooked pasta just before serving. Reheating might slightly alter the texture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
What kind of ranch dressing should I use?
You can use either homemade or store-bought ranch dressing. Homemade ranch will give you more control over the ingredients and flavor, but store-bought is a convenient option.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Add them to the skillet with the chicken and cook until tender-crisp.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
To make this recipe healthier, you can use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of bacon, and use a lighter milk alternative like skim milk. You can also increase the amount of vegetables for added nutrients.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcook the pasta. It should be al dente (firm to the bite).
- Use high-quality bacon for the best flavor.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to thin it out.
- Taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- Garnish generously with fresh herbs or green onions for an extra pop of color and flavor.
This creamy chicken ranch bacon pasta is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize to your preferences. Enjoy!
