Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Introduction
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish that marries the heartiness of chicken and bacon with the zesty taste of ranch dressing. It makes for a perfect meal any night of the week, offering comfort in every bite. If you’re looking for a meal that is both fulfilling and easy to make, this recipe is for you!
Why make this recipe
This recipe combines key ingredients that nearly everyone loves: chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing. Not only is it delicious, but it also comes together quickly, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings. Plus, you can easily customize it if you want to add more veggies or swap ingredients. It’s a crowd-pleaser that even picky eaters often enjoy!
How to prepare Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Steps:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through.
- Once cooked, reduce the heat to low and add the ranch dressing to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken evenly.
- Add the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon to the skillet, mixing until everything is combined and heated through.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
How to serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Serve this dish warm in bowls or on plates. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan or bacon on top for added flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to make it a complete meal.
How to store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Tips to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta perfectly
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.
- Stir the ranch dressing in slowly to avoid clumping.
- Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for some extra nutrition.
- For a little spice, add some red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the dish.
Variations
- You can substitute the chicken with shrimp or turkey for a different protein.
- Use a different type of pasta, like penne or fusilli, depending on your preference.
- For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta and a lighter ranch dressing.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
A: While you can freeze it, the texture might not be the same after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh.
Q: What can I serve with Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
A: It pairs well with a green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Now you’re ready to enjoy a delicious plate of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta! It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
A creamy, flavorful dish that combines chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing for a quick and comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink and cooked through.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the ranch dressing to the skillet, stirring to coat the chicken evenly.
- Add the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon to the skillet, mixing until everything is combined and heated through.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. Customize with vegetables or different proteins if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: pasta, chicken, bacon, ranch, easy dinner, creamy pasta