Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe
Introduction
If you’re a fan of the classic combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch, then you’re going to absolutely love this chicken bacon ranch pasta recipe. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. The creamy ranch sauce pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and crispy bacon, creating a mouthwatering pasta dish that will leave you craving for more. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner for the family or hosting a dinner party, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
To create this delicious chicken bacon ranch pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 8 ounces of penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
- 6 slices of bacon
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of ranch dressing
- 1 cup of chicken broth
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Follow these simple steps to make your chicken bacon ranch pasta:
- Cook the penne pasta according to the instructions on the package. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In the same skillet used for the bacon, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before cutting it into bite-sized pieces.
- In the same skillet, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the ranch dressing and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring until well combined. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked penne pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet. Stir until everything is evenly coated with the ranch sauce.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the pasta and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it cook for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the top.
- Serve the chicken bacon ranch pasta hot and enjoy!
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for penne pasta, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Farfalle, rigatoni, or fusilli would all work well with the chicken bacon ranch flavors.
2. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon if you prefer a leaner option. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different from using regular bacon.
3. How should I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through.
4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and then reheat it when ready to serve. Follow the recipe up until step 8, then transfer the pasta and sauce to a baking dish. Sprinkle with cheese and cover the dish with foil. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted.
5. Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Certainly! If you want to incorporate some vegetables into the dish, you can sauté them along with the garlic. Diced onions, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be great additions to enhance the flavor and add some extra nutrition.
Now that you have this delicious chicken bacon ranch pasta recipe at your fingertips, it’s time to get cooking. Enjoy the creamy, savory flavors and savor each bite. Bon appétit!
