Description
Indulge in the creamy, savory delight of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, a dish that effortlessly combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and rich ranch flavor enveloped in hearty rotini pasta. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. In just under an hour, you can create a comforting meal that pleases both kids and adults alike. With its luscious cheese sauce and mouthwatering spices, each bite will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
- 6 strips bacon
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cups uncooked rotini pasta
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a large skillet over low heat until crispy. Reserve drippings and chop the bacon.
- Slice chicken breasts thinly and season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear in reserved drippings until golden brown; cube after resting.
- Boil salted water in a large pot; cook rotini until al dente. Drain well.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant. Gradually stir in flour, then whisk in half-and-half until smooth. Add ranch seasoning and cheese until melted.
- Combine pasta with sauce in the skillet; mix in chicken and garnish with chopped bacon.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to enhance nutrition. To keep it creamy, avoid overcooking the sauce.