Loaded Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta
Description:
This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is packed with flavor! Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta are smothered in a rich ranch-seasoned cheese sauce. It’s a comforting and hearty meal, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients (Serves 6):
12 oz penne or rotini pasta
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
8 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Cook the pasta:
In a large pot, cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken, season with salt, pepper, and half of the ranch seasoning. Cook until golden brown and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Make the sauce:
In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and stir in the remaining ranch seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
Add cheese:
Lower the heat, add cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Stir until melted and smooth.
Combine:
Add the cooked chicken, bacon (reserve a little for garnish), and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated.
Serve:
Garnish with remaining bacon and parsley or green onions. Serve hot.
Time Breakdown:
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Estimated Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: ~710 kcal
Protein: 37g
Fat: 43g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 950mg
(Values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes)
FAQs:
Q: Can I use a different pasta?
A: Yes! Any short pasta like farfalle, rigatoni, or shells work well.
Q: Can I use a homemade ranch seasoning?
A: Definitely. Mix 1 tsp each of dried dill, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, and ½ tsp salt.
Q: How do I make it lighter?
A: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and turkey bacon instead of pork bacon. You can also cut down on the cheese.
Q: Is this good for meal prep?
A: Yes, it reheats well! Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Q: Can I bake it after mixing?
A: Absolutely. Add everything to a baking dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) f
or 15–20 minutes.