This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a creamy and tasty dish that combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and rich ranch flavor all mixed with pasta. It’s a dish that pleases everyone!
You can’t go wrong with bacon, can you? I mean, it’s like a party on your plate! 🍗🥓 I love making this meal because it’s quick and always a hit with my family—everyone begs for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: Rotini’s shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly. If you don’t have rotini, feel free to use penne, fusilli, or any pasta you prefer!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds crunch and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well, or you can skip it and use sautéed mushrooms for a veggie twist.
Ranch Dressing: Ranch dressing is essential for flavor. You can use a homemade version or substitute with a creamy herb dressing if you want something different.
Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds a nice salty kick. Grated Pecorino Romano can be used as a substitute, or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, consider using half-and-half, coconut milk, or a dairy-free cream alternative to achieve similar creaminess.
How Do I Cook the Chicken Perfectly?
Cooking chicken properly is key for tenderness. Start with seasoned chicken pieces for great flavor. Here’s how to do it well:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to get a nice sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; it’s better to cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than browning.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through until it’s golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
This way, you ensure your chicken is juicy and packed with flavor! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
For the Chicken and Bacon:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 slices bacon
For the Sauce:
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta recipe takes about 30 minutes total. In just 10 minutes, you can prepare the ingredients and cook the pasta. The rest is cooking the chicken and making the creamy sauce!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
In a large skillet, place the bacon strips over medium heat. Cook them until they’re crispy, turning occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the skillet and crumble it once it cools. Don’t forget to save about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet!
3. Cook the Chicken:
In the same skillet, add olive oil to the reserved bacon fat and heat it over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through.
4. Add the Flavor:
Once the chicken is cooked, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is aromatic but not browned.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium, and then stir in the ranch dressing, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce is nicely heated and creamy.
6. Combine with the Pasta:
Add the cooked rotini pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated with the delicious sauce.
7. Mix In the Bacon:
Fold in most of the crispy bacon pieces, saving a bit for garnishing. This adds a nice crunch and flavor throughout the dish!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your pasta, and don’t forget to sprinkle the remaining bacon and some chopped fresh parsley on top for a lovely garnish. Dive into this creamy, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress everyone!
Enjoy your delightful Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, perfect for any occasion!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great option for added fiber, while gluten-free pasta works well too. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type you choose, and cook until al dente.
How Can I Make This Dish Lighter?
If you want a lighter version, consider using less heavy cream or substituting it with Greek yogurt or a low-fat sour cream. You can also reduce the amount of bacon or use turkey bacon for fewer calories.
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce seems too thick.
What Can I Serve With Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
This pasta dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You could also serve it with garlic bread for a delicious side option!
