Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a cheesy, creamy dish with seasoned chicken and crispy bacon, perfect for an easy dinner.
Equipment
- large skillet
- Microwave
Ingredients
Cheese and Pasta
- 2 cups cheddar cheese shredded
- 2 cups uncooked pasta I used rotini
Meats
- 6 strips bacon
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
Dairy and Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Other
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over low heat. Set aside and pour bacon drippings into a small bowl.
- Cut the chicken breasts into thinner slices and pat dry. Season each side with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat 2 Tbsp. bacon drippings in the skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on each side for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Set aside and let rest for 5 minutes.
- Boil salted water and cook the pasta. Drain once finished.
- Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Sauté the garlic for 1 minute, then add flour and stir for 1 more minute.
- Temper the half and half by heating in the microwave for 40 seconds. Add it to the skillet in splashes, stirring as you do. Bring it to a gentle bubble, then reduce heat.
- Add the Ranch seasoning and stir to combine. Gradually stir in the cheese.
- Add the pasta to the skillet and combine with the sauce. Stir in the chicken and garnish with bacon.
Notes
Pro Tips: Heavy cream can be used instead of half and half. Shred the cheese from a block for better melting. Thick Cut bacon will produce more drippings. Frozen mixed vegetables can also be added to make it a complete meal.
Nutrition
Serving: 1plateCalories: 552kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!