Chicken bacon ranch pasta

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a creamy, indulgent dish that’s packed with flavor from the crispy bacon, tender chicken, and the ranch dressing that ties it all together. It’s a super comforting meal that’s easy to make and sure to please everyone. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta:

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for juicier meat)
• 8 oz (225g) pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work great)
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking the chicken)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or about 2-3 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning)
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
• 1 cup (240 ml) milk (whole milk works best, but any will do)
• 1 1/2 cups (180g) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:

   • Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.

2. Cook the Bacon:

   • While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings in the skillet for cooking the chicken.

3. Cook the Chicken:

   • Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
   • In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, heat olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
   • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest for a few minutes, then slice it thinly.

4. Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce:

   • In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and milk over medium heat. Stir to combine and bring it to a simmer.
   • Add the ranch seasoning mix and stir until it’s fully dissolved into the cream. Continue simmering for 2-3 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
   • Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, allowing them to melt into a creamy sauce. If the sauce gets too thick, you can add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

5. Combine the Pasta:

   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy ranch sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.
   • Add the cooked chicken slices and crispy bacon to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined.

6. Serve:

   • Divide the pasta among plates and garnish with fresh chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips for Extra Flavor:

• Extra veggies: You can add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or peas for added nutrition and color.
• Crispier bacon: If you want even crispier bacon, bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes until crispy.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
• For a lighter version: Use half-and-half or even plain Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese.

Storage:

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the perfect comfort food—creamy, cheesy, with just the right balance of savory bacon and ranch flavor. It’s a simple and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love. Enjoy! Let me know if you make it!