Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta: A Quick & Tasty Meal
Short introduction
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a creamy, savory dish that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and rich ranch dressing tossed with pasta. This comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights or family get-togethers, making it a wonderful addition to your dinner rotation.
Why you’ll love it
This recipe is loved for its combination of flavors and textures. The crispy bacon pairs beautifully with juicy chicken and a creamy ranch dressing, resulting in a deliciously hearty dish. The addition of cheese and green onions gives it an extra layer of flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 strips bacon, chopped
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Substitutions & key variations
If you’re looking to switch things up, there are many great substitutions for this recipe:
- Pasta: You can use any type of pasta you like, such as penne, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta.
- Chicken: Swap out the chicken for cooked shredded rotisserie chicken to save time.
- Bacon: For a healthier option, consider turkey bacon or omit the bacon altogether.
- Cheese: Feel free to try different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or pepper jack for a kick.
- Ranch Dressing: You can use homemade ranch dressing or even other dressings like blue cheese or Italian.
Step-by-step
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling a pot of water. Once boiling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions. When done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the pan, leaving the drippings behind.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the bite-sized pieces of chicken to the skillet where the bacon was cooked. Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Ranch
Once the chicken is cooked, mix in the drained pasta and ranch dressing. Stir until everything is well combined.
Step 5: Add Bacon and Cheese
Stir in the cooked bacon and shredded cheese. Cook for an additional few minutes, until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top your dish with the chopped green onions for added flavor and color before serving.
Success tips
To ensure your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
- Temperature: Cook the pasta al dente so it has a slight bite to it. This will help it hold up well when mixed with the creamy sauce.
- Texture: When adding the ranch dressing, make sure to stir thoroughly so that every piece of pasta and chicken is coated evenly.
- Common mistakes: Avoid overcooking the bacon, as burnt bacon will compromise the flavor of the dish. Additionally, don’t skip the resting time after the pasta is cooked; draining and setting it aside allows it to retain its texture.
How to serve
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta can be served warm and is perfect as a main dish. It pairs well with a light salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal. You can also serve it in bowls topped with extra cheese and green onions for an attractive presentation.
Storage & reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in the microwave until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or more ranch dressing to maintain the creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them on the day you plan to serve. Cook the chicken and bacon, and boil the pasta, then store them separately in the fridge.
Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
It is not ideal to freeze this recipe, as the texture of the pasta and cheese can change. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken and bacon separately for use in future meals.
How can I make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta spicier?
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes. You can also use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
Nutrition notes / equivalents
This dish is hearty and filling. It provides protein from the chicken and bacon, alongside carbohydrates from the pasta. You can make it lighter by reducing the cheese and ranch dressing or by using whole grain pasta.
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is an easy, flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. Try making it tonight and enjoy a comforting meal that brings smiles all around the table!
Links to related recipes
- Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Chicken Alfredo Bake
- Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Bites
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta Any type of pasta can be used.
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Feel free to use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- 4 strips bacon, chopped Turkey bacon can be used for a healthier option.
- 1 cup ranch dressing Can substitute with homemade ranch or other dressings.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Try mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavors.
- ½ cup green onions, chopped Used for garnish.
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning the chicken.
Instructions
Cooking the Ingredients
- Cook the pasta in boiling water following package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and leave drippings in the pan.
- Add chicken to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, cooking until browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in the drained pasta and ranch dressing until combined.
- Add cooked bacon and shredded cheese, stirring until cheese is melted and the dish is heated through.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.