Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta with Creamy Sauce is the ultimate comfort food! Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta are tossed in a rich, cheesy ranch-infused sauce. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this satisfying dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 strips bacon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups uncooked rotini pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing mix
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large skillet over low heat.
- Cook the bacon strips until crispy, flipping occasionally.
- Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, then chop into small pieces.
- Reserve the bacon drippings in the skillet for added flavor.
- Prepare the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces for even cooking.
- Season both sides with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat the reserved bacon drippings in the skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting it into bite-sized cubes.
- Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Gradually pour in the half and half, whisking constantly to create a smooth sauce.
- Stir in the dry ranch dressing mix and shredded cheddar cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
- Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Gently fold in the cubed chicken and chopped bacon.
- Serve warm, garnished with additional cheese or parsley if desired.
Notes
- Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste before serving.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove-top
- Cuisine: American