Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Introduction

Indulge in this irresistible Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta — a creamy and savory dish that brings together the unbeatable combination of chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch flavors. Perfect for a weekday dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish is sure to please everyone around the table.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 300 grams of penne pasta
– 500 grams of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 150 grams of bacon, chopped
– 250 ml of heavy cream
– 120 grams of cream cheese, softened
– 60 ml of ranch dressing
– 150 grams of shredded cheddar cheese
– 200 ml of chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– 25 grams of flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 30 grams of fresh parsley, chopped

Prep Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the drippings in the pan.

Step 4: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the bacon drippings and whisk until combined, cooking for about 1 minute.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Add Cream Cheese and Ranch

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the cream cheese, ranch dressing, and cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Stir to coat everything in the creamy sauce.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Prep Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Yield

Yield: 4 servings

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Customization Options

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor. Adjust the amount of ranch dressing to suit your taste preferences.

Storage Instructions

To store the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to store it longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal. You might also serve it with garlic bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. For an extra kick, consider topping it with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (based on 4 servings):
– Calories: 650
– Protein: 35g
– Carbohydrates: 60g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 2g
– Total Fat: 35g
– Saturated Fat: 17g
– Cholesterol: 150mg
– Sodium: 800mg

Please note that these values can vary based on specific brands of ingredients used.

Ingredient Substitutions

– Pasta: You can substitute penne pasta with any pasta shape such as fusilli, rigatoni, or bowtie.
– Chicken: Diced turkey or cooked shredded rotisserie chicken can be used instead of chicken breasts.
– Bacon: Turkey bacon or pancetta can be a leaner alternative to traditional bacon.
– Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you may use half-and-half or Greek yogurt, but this may alter the creaminess.
– Cream Cheese: Mascarpone or ricotta can be used as a substitute for cream cheese.
– Ranch Dressing: Homemade ranch dressing can be made using yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic, and herbs for a healthier option.

Cook Techniques

Boiling Pasta

Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until al dente. This ensures a firm texture that won’t become mushy in the final dish.

Sautéing Chicken

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat to cook the diced chicken. Season with garlic and onion powders, salt, and pepper. Sauté until browned and fully cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes.

Crisping Bacon

Cook chopped bacon in the same skillet until it reaches a crispy texture. Using a slotted spoon to remove the bacon helps retain the flavorful drippings, which will be used for the sauce.

Thickening Sauce

Sprinkle flour over the bacon drippings and whisk until combined. Adding the chicken broth and heavy cream slowly while whisking continuously helps achieve a creamy, thick sauce.

Melt Combining Ingredients

Reduce the heat and stir in cream cheese, ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese until melted. This combines flavors and creates a rich, creamy coating for the pasta and protein.

Mixing Ingredients

Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together to ensure even coating in the creamy sauce.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with other types like rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time. Store each component separately and combine them just before serving to maintain the best texture.

Is it possible to make this dish healthier?

You can use whole grain pasta, low-fat cream cheese, and a lighter ranch dressing to reduce calories and fat.

Can I add vegetables to the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?

Absolutely! Consider adding spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.

What can I substitute for ranch dressing?

You can use homemade ranch dressing or a different flavor of dressing like Italian or blue cheese if preferred.

Conclusion

Indulging in Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta offers a delightful balance of flavors that appeals to both the young and the young at heart. This creamy dish is not only satisfying but also quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for any weeknight meal or gathering. With its comfort food charm and simple ingredients, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your household.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Buffalo Chicken Pasta

Spice things up with a Buffalo chicken version by adding hot sauce to the cream sauce and using blue cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy twist.

Vegetable Ranch Pasta

For a lighter option, incorporate fresh vegetables such as broccoli, bell peppers, and spinach into the dish for added nutrients and flavor.

Chicken Alfredo with Bacon

Mix it up by creating a classic alfredo pasta dish, adding crispy bacon and grilled chicken for a rich, creamy experience that satisfies.

Pesto Chicken Pasta

Substitute ranch dressing with a homemade or store-bought basil pesto for a fresh burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken and pasta.

BBQ Chicken Pasta

Combine shredded BBQ chicken with pasta and a creamy sauce for a smokey, savory delight that will elevate your pasta night.