Chicken bacon ranch pasta
Ingredients:
1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 tablespoons flour
6 strips bacon
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, rigatoni, bow tie, etc.)
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
2 cups half and half (can substitute whole milk)
2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Instructions:
Shred the cheddar cheese and set it aside at room temperature to allow it to melt smoothly.
Let the bacon sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before frying. Cut the bacon into smaller squares using kitchen scissors.
Heat a large skillet over low heat and add the bacon. Cook slowly, turning it over as it begins to curl, to ensure even cooking. Leave 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan.
Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning. Toss the chicken pieces in 3 tablespoons of flour.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes or until golden brown. Once cooked, set the chicken aside.
Meanwhile, bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for one minute.
Temper the half and half by heating it in the microwave for 40 seconds. Gradually whisk it into the skillet.
Slowly whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese and dry ranch dressing seasoning mix, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and mix in the cooked pasta.
Turn the heat to low. The sauce will continue to thicken upon standing.
Crumble the cooked bacon into smaller pieces if desired and sprinkle it over the pasta before serving
To make the best chicken bacon ranch pasta, consider these top tips:
- Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality ingredients. Use fresh chicken breasts, good quality bacon, flavorful ranch dressing, and your favorite type of pasta.
- Seasoning: Season each component generously. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and any other preferred seasonings before cooking. Similarly, season the sauce to taste with salt, pepper, and additional herbs or spices if desired.
- Cook Bacon Properly: Cook the bacon until it’s crispy. This will add a crunchy texture and maximize its flavor. Remove excess grease by draining the cooked bacon on paper towels before adding it to the pasta.
- Don’t Overcook Chicken: Be cautious not to overcook the chicken breasts. Cook them just until they’re no longer pink in the center to maintain their juiciness and tenderness. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough.
- Balanced Sauce: Ensure the sauce is well-balanced. Adjust the ratios of heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch dressing to achieve the desired creaminess and flavor. Taste the sauce as you go and make adjustments as needed.
- Combine Ingredients Thoughtfully: Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, and sauce gently and thoughtfully. Toss them together in a large skillet or pot over low heat until everything is evenly coated in the creamy ranch sauce.
- Customize: Feel free to customize the dish according to your preferences. You can add extra ingredients like sautéed onions, mushrooms, or bell peppers for additional flavor and texture.
- Garnish: Garnish the finished dish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. Grated Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can also enhance the flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the chicken bacon ranch pasta immediately after preparing it to enjoy it at its best. The pasta can become mushy if left sitting for too long.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations of the dish. You can try using different types of pasta, adding spices like paprika or garlic powder to the sauce, or incorporating alternative proteins like shrimp or tofu for a unique twist.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and satisfying chicken bacon ranch pasta that’s sure to impress your family and friends
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQ) about chicken bacon ranch pasta:
- Can I use different types of pasta?
- Yes, you can use different types of pasta such as penne, fusilli, farfalle (bowtie), or rotini. Choose a shape that holds the sauce well.
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the chicken bacon ranch pasta ahead of time, but keep in mind that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
- Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon if you prefer a lighter option. Keep in mind that turkey bacon may have a different texture and flavor compared to traditional bacon.
- Is there a healthier version of chicken bacon ranch pasta?
- You can make a lighter version of this dish by using whole wheat pasta, lean chicken breast, turkey bacon, and a lighter ranch dressing or a homemade ranch dressing with Greek yogurt as a base. You can also increase the amount of vegetables and reduce the amount of cheese for a healthier option.
- How long does leftover chicken bacon ranch pasta last in the fridge?
- Leftover chicken bacon ranch pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.
- Can I freeze chicken bacon ranch pasta?
- While you can freeze chicken bacon ranch pasta, the texture of the pasta and sauce may change slightly upon thawing. If freezing, store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1-2 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- What can I serve with chicken bacon ranch pasta?
- Chicken bacon ranch pasta is a complete meal on its own, but you can serve it with a side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.
- Can I make this dish without ranch dressing?
- Yes, if you prefer not to use ranch dressing, you can substitute it with a creamy Alfredo sauce or a combination of sour cream and mayonnaise seasoned with herbs and spices.
These are some common questions about chicken bacon ranch pasta. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask
