Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta, a creamy, cheesy, and savory dish that's perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Tender, seasoned chicken breasts pair beautifully with al dente pasta, crispy bacon, and a velvety homemade ranch cheese sauce made from melted cheddar, parmesan, and a hint of garlic. The dish is finished with a sprinkling of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Ready in just 45 minutes, this one-pan comfort food combines the satisfying crunch of bacon and the bold zest of ranch, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you're craving a hearty pasta recipe or a new twist on classic ranch flavors, this dish will surely satisfy every palate. Perfect for serving a party of four, it's a must-try for pasta lovers and bacon enthusiasts alike.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 0.5 teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
- 6 slices bacon
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 cup parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Season the chicken breasts with salt, ground black pepper, and paprika on both sides.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside, then dice into bite-sized pieces once cooled slightly.
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In the same skillet, cook the bacon slices over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
In the skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly golden, forming a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Add the ranch seasoning mix and garlic powder, stirring to combine. Continue simmering for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, parmesan cheese, and diced chicken. Mix until the cheeses are melted and the chicken is evenly coated in the sauce.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until fully combined with the sauce.
Stir in the crumbled bacon and garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
805 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 46.4 g | 60% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.8 g | 119% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 184 mg | 61% | |
| Sodium | 1307 mg | 57% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 39.3 g | 14% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.0 g | 7% | |
| Total Sugars | 7.1 g | ||
| Protein | 58.3 g | 117% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.7 mcg | 9% | |
| Calcium | 682 mg | 52% | |
| Iron | 2.0 mg | 11% | |
| Potassium | 505 mg | 11% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
