***
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta has become a beloved dish for its creamy, savory flavors and hearty ingredients. This one-pot meal beautifully combines tender chicken breast, crispy bacon, and al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich ranch dressing and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a comforting dish that appeals to families and gatherings alike, making it a go-to recipe for busy nights or weekend meals.
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to whip up Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta. Firstly, it’s a crowd-pleaser, combining flavors and textures that everyone adores—from kids to adults. Its ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while also being versatile enough for entertaining guests. Plus, the wonderful combination of ranch dressing and creamy cheese elevates this meal to a delightful comfort food level. Not to mention, this dish is customizable, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or substitute proteins to suit your taste.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 strips of bacon
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., penne or rotini)
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, add the bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and chop into bits.
- In the skillet, combine cooked pasta, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Slice the chicken and add it to the pasta mixture along with the bacon. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is best served warm, immediately after preparation. You can plate individual servings or serve it family-style right from the skillet. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a pop of color and added flavor. This dish pairs exceptionally well with a light salad or steamed vegetables, providing a nice balance to the richness of the pasta.
How to Store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it up in a skillet on low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. Enjoying this dish the next day is a treat, as the flavors have time to meld beautifully.
Tips to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in ranch seasoning before cooking.
- To make it a bit healthier, consider adding in vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers.
- Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack, to switch up the flavor profile.
- Adjust the amount of ranch dressing based on your taste—more for creaminess, less for a lighter dish.
Variation
Feel free to experiment with this recipe! You can try substituting the chicken with cooked shrimp or even use ground turkey for a different protein. Additionally, using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can cater to dietary preferences. For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove chicken and let it rest.
- In the same skillet, add the bacon and cook until crispy. Remove and chop into bits.
- In the skillet, combine cooked pasta, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Slice the cooked chicken and add it to the pasta mixture along with the bacon. Stir to combine and heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
