Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta: A Creamy and Savory Delight
Introduction
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that brings together the savory taste of chicken, the crispiness of bacon, and the creamy goodness of ranch dressing. This meal is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion when you want to impress your family and friends. The combination of tender pasta, juicy chicken, and smoky bacon, all coated in a cheesy ranch sauce, makes for a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be on the table in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded: Adds a rich, cheesy flavor to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings for the chicken and sauce.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the flavor of the chicken.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds a blend of herbs to the chicken for extra flavor.
- 3 tablespoons flour: Used to create a roux that thickens the sauce.
- 6 strips bacon: Provides a smoky, crispy element to the dish.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The main protein, seasoned and cooked to perfection.
- 1 pound pasta of choice: The base of the dish; choose your favorite pasta shape.
- 1 cup ranch dressing: The key ingredient that brings a tangy, creamy flavor to the sauce.
- 1 cup milk: Helps create a smooth and creamy sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a burst of flavor to the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for cooking the garlic and making the sauce.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a touch of freshness and color to the final dish.
Preparing the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. This step is crucial as you want the pasta to be ready to mix with the sauce once it’s prepared. Cooking the pasta first also allows you to focus on preparing the rest of the dish without any delays.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. These seasonings not only add flavor but also help to create a nice crust on the chicken when it’s cooked. In a large skillet, cook the bacon until it’s crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet, chop it into pieces, and set it aside. Be sure to leave the bacon drippings in the skillet, as they will be used to cook the chicken.
In the same skillet, cook the seasoned chicken breasts in the bacon drippings until they are golden brown and cooked through. The bacon fat adds an extra layer of flavor to the chicken, making it even more delicious. After cooking, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. Resting the chicken allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that the chicken remains moist and tender.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
To start the sauce, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet you used for the chicken. Heat the oil over medium heat and then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Next, sprinkle the flour into the skillet and whisk it together with the garlic and olive oil to form a roux. Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the milk, ensuring that the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. Continue to cook the sauce until it thickens slightly.
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the ranch dressing and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy. The ranch dressing gives the sauce a tangy, herbaceous flavor, while the cheddar cheese adds richness and depth.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
With the sauce ready, add the cooked pasta, chicken strips, and chopped bacon to the skillet. Stir everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce and the chicken and bacon are evenly distributed throughout the dish. Heat the mixture through for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Taste the pasta and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. The final step is to garnish the dish with chopped parsley, which adds a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the rich flavors of the pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta hot, straight from the skillet. This dish is hearty enough to be served on its own, but it also pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. For an extra indulgent touch, you can top the pasta with additional shredded cheddar cheese or a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Conservation
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta will keep well for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet or microwave and heat until warmed through. If the sauce has thickened too much in the fridge, you can add a splash of milk to loosen it up.
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the perfect comfort food, combining creamy ranch dressing, savory chicken, and crispy bacon into a dish that’s both satisfying and delicious. It’s an easy recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite, especially on busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this dish is guaranteed to please. Enjoy this creamy, flavorful pasta that’s bursting with the classic flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch!