Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) penne pasta
• 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta:

   Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside. Reserve a small cup of pasta water for later use.

2. Cook the chicken:

   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. Make the creamy ranch sauce:

   In the same skillet, add the ranch seasoning mix, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.

4. Combine the pasta:

   Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the ranch sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a small amount of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

5. Add the bacon:

   Stir in the crumbled bacon, mixing well to distribute it throughout the pasta.

6. Serve:

   Once everything is well combined and heated through, garnish the pasta with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for the Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

• Use crispy bacon: For the best flavor and texture, make sure your bacon is crispy. You can either cook it in the skillet or bake it in the oven for an even, crispy result.
• Customize the sauce: If you prefer a richer sauce, you can use half-and-half or full-fat milk instead of heavy cream, but keep in mind that it will alter the creaminess slightly.
• Vegetable add-ins: For added nutrition and flavor, consider adding some sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli to the pasta.
• Cheese options: You can use a combination of different cheeses such as mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a more complex flavor profile.

Creative Variations

• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the ranch sauce for a spicy twist on this classic recipe.
• Chicken and bacon swap: You can swap the chicken for turkey or even grilled shrimp for a different protein option.
• Vegan version: To make this recipe vegan, use plant-based bacon, vegan cheese, and a dairy-free cream alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you like, such as fusilli, spaghetti, or rotini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of pasta you use.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken and pasta ahead of time, then assemble and cook the sauce when you’re ready to eat. You can also store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this recipe?

While it’s not ideal to freeze pasta dishes with cream-based sauces, you can freeze the chicken, bacon, and ranch sauce mixture separately. When ready to eat, defrost and reheat the sauce, then toss it with freshly cooked pasta.

Conclusion

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch dressing sauce, it’s a dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a casual family gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy the rich, delicious flavors that come together in just one skillet!