Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe - Chloe's Cozy Kitchen

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Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta – The Ultimate Dinner Recipe

If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dinner recipe, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta recipe is the perfect choice. It combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch sauce, and pasta for a delicious meal that’s easy to make. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to be a family favorite.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

Chicken Breast – Provides a lean, protein-rich base for the dish.
Bacon – Adds a crispy, smoky flavor that complements the creamy sauce.
Pasta – The foundation of the dish; penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work best.
Ranch Seasoning – Infuses the dish with bold, tangy, and herby flavors.
Heavy Cream & Milk – Create a rich and creamy sauce.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds depth and enhances the creaminess of the sauce.
Garlic & Onion Powder – Boost the overall flavor.
Butter & Olive Oil – Used for cooking the chicken and creating a smooth sauce.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.

Ingredients

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
6 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
12 ounces pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
2 teaspoons ranch seasoning mix
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy.
Remove from the skillet, drain on paper towels, and crumble into small pieces.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and ranch seasoning.
Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce

In the same skillet, add heavy cream, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, and Parmesan cheese.
Stir continuously over medium-low heat until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
Add the cooked bacon and chicken back into the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce.
Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serve hot and enjoy a comforting, creamy dinner recipe.

Expert Tips for the Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor.
Do not overcook the pasta; keeping it al dente helps maintain the perfect bite.
For extra creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese when making the sauce.
Let the sauce simmer on low heat to avoid curdling and ensure a smooth consistency.

Presentation Tips

Serve in a large pasta bowl with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley.
Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Add a drizzle of ranch dressing on top for an extra boost of flavor.

Creative Twists

Spicy Version – Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
Veggie-Packed Pasta – Mix in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for added nutrients.
Low-Carb Option – Swap regular pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower pasta.

Pro Tip for Customization

If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon. This keeps the dish creamy but slightly lower in calories.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then reheat and combine before serving. Add a splash of milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Absolutely. Rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken works great and saves time.

Q: What pasta works best for this dish?
A: Short pasta like penne, rigatoni, or rotini works best as it holds the creamy sauce well.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate dinner recipe for a satisfying and flavorful meal. It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors that everyone will love. Whether you make it for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, it’s sure to be a hit.

Looking for more dinner recipe ideas? Check out other delicious meals on Chloe’s Cozy Kitchen and find your next favorite dish.

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