Indulge in the rich flavors of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, a dish that effortlessly combines the savory goodness of chicken and bacon with the creamy zest of ranch dressing. This pasta dish is perfect for those looking for a quick and satisfying meal that feels like a treat, ideal for both busy weeknights and leisurely weekend dinners.
A Flavor Fusion That Satisfies Every Time
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a comforting blend of ingredients that are sure to warm the heart and please the palate. With its creamy sauce and hearty toppings, it’s a full meal that requires little prep and even less stress.
Pro Tips for Perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Pasta Choice: Opt for penne or another medium-sized pasta that holds sauce well, ensuring each bite is as flavorful as the last.
- Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Dice the chicken into even pieces to ensure quick and even cooking. Season well with salt and pepper before cooking to enhance its flavor.
- Crispy Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy to add a textural contrast to the creamy pasta.
- Low and Slow Sauce: Simmer the sauce gently to prevent the dairy ingredients from separating and to achieve a smooth consistency.
- Finishing Touches: Add the parsley at the end to maintain its bright color and fresh flavor.
Recipe for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
- Serving: Serves 4
- Equipment: Skillet, pot for pasta
Prepare yourself for a dish that’s as delightful to eat as it is simple to make.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (such as penne)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley
Directions:
- Cook Pasta: Follow the package instructions to cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked.
- Create the Sauce: To the skillet, add the cooked bacon, ranch dressing, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Melt the Cheeses: Stir in the Parmesan and cheddar cheeses until they are melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it well to coat with the sauce. Cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes to ensure the pasta is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the pasta before serving to add a fresh, herbal touch.
Gather and Enjoy
Serve this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta hot from the skillet and watch as it becomes a new favorite in your household. The combination of creamy sauce, savory chicken, and crispy bacon makes this dish not just a meal, but an experience to be savored. Perfect for those evenings when only something indulgent will do, this pasta dish promises satisfaction in every forkful.
