Description

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)

Instructions

Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the reserved bacon pieces over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
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

Notes

Serving Tips:

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

Storage Tips:

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