Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

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Are you in search of a mouthwatering dish that combines the irresistible flavors of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce? Look no further than our delectable Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta recipe! This hearty meal is a perfect fusion of comfort and flavor, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds with every bite. Let’s dive into the culinary journey of creating this delightful dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

Ingredients:

  • 8 oz short-cut pasta
  • 4 strips of bacon, cut into small pieces
  • ¾ pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • ⅓ cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup Marie’s Creamy Ranch Dressing
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and drain on paper towels, reserving 1-2 teaspoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
  3. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Increase the heat to high and add the chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and mostly cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and cover with foil to keep warm.
  4. In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, ranch dressing, and garlic powder. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
  5. Add the cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and most of the cooked bacon (reserve some for topping) to the skillet. Stir until everything is well coated in the ranch sauce.
  6. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta mixture. Cover the skillet and cook for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the reserved bacon pieces over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
  8. Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta hot and enjoy the creamy, savory flavors!

Prep Time: 5 min Cooking Time: 25 min Total Time: 30 min Servings: 4

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta hot for the best taste experience.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
  3. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors and add variety to the meal.
  4. Serve in individual bowls or on a platter for a visually appealing presentation at gatherings or family dinners.
  5. Consider adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Storage Tips:

  1. If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
  2. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  3. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to the pasta to prevent it from drying out.
  4. Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
  5. Note that the texture of the pasta may slightly change upon reheating, but it will still be delicious.

Variations:

  1. Vegetarian Twist: For a meat-free option, omit the chicken and bacon. Instead, add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms for a flavorful vegetarian version of this dish.
  2. Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the ranch sauce for a spicy twist. You can also sprinkle some chili powder or hot sauce over the finished dish for an extra kick.
  3. Creamy Upgrade: Experiment with different types of creamy sauces such as alfredo or carbonara in place of the ranch dressing for a unique flavor profile. You can also mix in some cream cheese or sour cream for an even creamier texture.
  4. Seafood Sensation: Incorporate seafood such as shrimp or crab meat for a seafood lover’s delight. Simply cook the seafood separately and add it to the pasta along with the ranch sauce.
  5. Healthy Swap: Replace the regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier alternative. You can also use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon and Greek yogurt in place of the ranch dressing for a lighter version of this dish.
  6. Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor of the dish by adding fresh herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or basil to the ranch sauce. Alternatively, sprinkle some dried herbs like oregano or Italian seasoning over the finished dish for an extra burst of flavor.
  7. Cheese Lover’s Delight: Experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack in place of the cheddar cheese for a cheesy twist. You can also add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy flavor.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe? Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken to save time. Simply dice the cooked chicken and add it to the skillet when instructed in the recipe.
  2. Is there a substitute for ranch dressing if I don’t have it on hand? If you don’t have ranch dressing, you can substitute it with a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, and dried herbs such as dill, parsley, and chives.
  3. Can I make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components of the dish ahead of time and assemble them just before serving. Store the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, and ranch sauce separately in the refrigerator.
  4. How can I make this recipe healthier? To make this recipe healthier, you can use whole wheat pasta, lean turkey bacon, and low-fat or Greek yogurt-based ranch dressing. You can also add more vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or peas to increase the nutritional value.
  5. What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta? This dish pairs well with a variety of sides including garlic bread, a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed broccoli. You can also serve it with a side of garlic knots or breadsticks.
  6. Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta? While you can freeze the leftovers, note that the texture may change slightly upon thawing and reheating. Store the cooled pasta in an airtight container and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  7. Can I use a different type of pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite type of pasta such as penne, fusilli, or spaghetti in place of short-cut pasta. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

There you have it – a sensational Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta recipe that’s bound to impress your family and friends. With its creamy texture, savory taste, and easy preparation, this dish is a winner for busy weeknights or special gatherings. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor the delightful flavors of this indulgent pasta creation. Bon appétit!