Description
Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients:
12 oz penne pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and ranch seasoning mix. Stir until combined and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is creamy.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly in the creamy sauce. Stir in half of the crumbled bacon.
5. Bake (Optional): For a baked version, transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with additional cheese and bacon, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or until bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve: Top with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley before serving.
Notes:
This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is indulgent, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy dinner. A family favorite that’s sure to impress!
#ChickenBaconRanch #CreamyPasta
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect results. Start by gathering all ingredients. Cook the pasta first, as it can sit while you prepare the rest. When cooking the chicken, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the oil to get a good sear. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed. For the sauce, keep the heat at medium-low once simmering to prevent the cream from separating. Add the cheese gradually, stirring constantly until fully melted before adding more. This ensures a smooth, velvety sauce. Finally, combine everything off the heat to keep the pasta from overcooking.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta pairs beautifully with lighter sides. Serve it with a crisp green salad dressed in a simple vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For a complete meal, add a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans. It’s an excellent main dish for potlucks or family gatherings.
How-to Summary
In summary: Cook pasta. Sear seasoned chicken. In the same pan, make a sauce with cream, ranch seasoning, and cheeses. Combine pasta, chicken, and sauce. Stir in bacon. Optionally bake with extra cheese. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape? Yes, any short pasta like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle works well. Avoid long strands.
How can I make this dish less heavy? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk or chicken broth. The sauce will be thinner but still flavorful.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? You can assemble it up to a day ahead. Store covered in the fridge and add 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. Microwave reheating can cause separation.
Can I use pre-cooked chicken? Absolutely. Use about 2 cups of shredded rotisserie or leftover chicken. Add it when you combine the pasta and sauce to just heat through.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the pasta: Always cook to al dente, as it will soften further in the sauce.
- Using high heat for the sauce: High heat can cause the dairy to curdle or the cheese to become greasy.
- Adding cheese to a boiling liquid: Remove the skillet from heat or turn it very low before adding cheese to melt smoothly.
- Not seasoning the chicken adequately: This is your primary chance to season the protein, so be generous.
- Using cold bacon grease: If your skillet has excess bacon fat, drain it before making the sauce to avoid an overly greasy result.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, masterfully combining savory, creamy, and tangy flavors. Its straightforward process yields an impressively decadent result suitable for both weeknights and special occasions. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can avoid common pitfalls and customize the dish to your taste. It’s a reliably crowd-pleasing recipe that will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.