Introduction
Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning with tender chicken and pasta. This comforting meal is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a satisfying blend of taste and texture that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– Pasta: 8 ounces of elbow macaroni or your preferred type
– Chicken breast: 1 pound, diced
– Bacon: 6 slices, cooked and crumbled
– Ranch seasoning mix: 1 packet (about 1 ounce)
– Cheddar cheese: 1 cup, shredded
– Cream cheese: 4 ounces
– Chicken broth: 1 cup
– Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
– Salt and pepper: to taste
– Green onions: for garnish
Prep Time
The prep time for this Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta is approximately 15 minutes. During this time, you can gather your ingredients, cook the bacon, and chop the chicken.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
The cook time is around 20 minutes, which includes cooking the chicken and pasta. In total, the complete preparation and cooking process takes about 35 minutes. This recipe yields about 4 servings, making it an ideal choice for family meals or leftovers.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to absorb excess grease. Leave about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the skillet.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
Add the diced chicken to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook the chicken over medium heat until it is fully cooked and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes.
Step 4: Add Ranch Seasoning
Once the chicken is cooked, sprinkle the ranch seasoning over it and stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and ranch mixture. Stir to combine well.
Step 6: Incorporate Cream and Cheese
Pour the cream and shredded cheddar cheese into the pasta mixture. Stir until the cheese is melted and everything is heated through.
Step 7: Add Bacon
Crumble the cooked bacon into the pasta and mix well to incorporate all the flavors.
Step 8: Serve the Pasta
Once everything is well combined and heated, serve the bacon ranch chicken pasta warm.
Notes
Note 1: Pasta Choice
Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, rotini, or fusilli.
Note 2: Chicken Alternatives
You can use precooked rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation. Just shred it and add it to the skillet.
Note 3: Adjusting Flavors
Adjust the amount of ranch seasoning to your taste preference for a stronger or milder flavor.
Note 4: Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
