Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta (Print-Friendly Recipe)
Creamy pasta tossed with chicken, crispy bacon, cheddar, and ranch seasoning—a comfort classic for gatherings.
# Ingredients List:
→ Main Components
01 -
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
02 -
6 strips bacon
03 -
2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
04 -
2 cups uncooked rotini pasta
→ Sauce and Seasonings
05 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
06 -
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
07 -
2 cups half and half
08 -
1 tablespoon minced garlic
09 -
2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
10 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
11 -
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
12 -
Salt, to taste
13 -
Ground black pepper, to taste
# How to Make It:
01 -
In a large skillet over low heat, cook bacon strips until crisp. Transfer to a plate and reserve the bacon drippings in the skillet. Allow bacon to cool, then roughly chop.
02 -
Slice chicken breasts into thin cutlets. Season evenly with salt, ground black pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Increase heat to medium-high and sear chicken in reserved bacon drippings until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a cutting board, let rest, then dice into cubes.
03 -
In a large pot, bring water to a rolling boil with a pinch of salt. Add rotini pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
04 -
In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, creating a roux. Gradually whisk in half and half until the mixture is smooth. Sprinkle in ranch seasoning, then fold in shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce is creamy and the cheese is fully melted.
05 -
Add drained pasta to the cheese sauce, stirring to coat each piece thoroughly. Gently fold in cubed chicken. Top with chopped bacon before serving. Present warm.
# Extra Information:
01 -
Swap pasta shapes or cheese varieties as desired. Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach to enhance nutritional content.
02 -
Select certified gluten-free pasta and ranch seasoning for a gluten-free meal.
03 -
To store, place in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
04 -
Cooking chicken in bacon renderings imparts additional savory depth.
05 -
Pair with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced presentation.