This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a tasty meal that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce. It’s comfort food at its best!
Honestly, who can resist that combo? I usually whip this up when I want something cozy and delicious in a hurry. Plus, leftovers are even better the next day!
Making this dish is super easy. Just cook the pasta, mix everything together, and enjoy. Perfect for a family dinner or a tasty lunch for yourself!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This pasta shape is perfect for holding onto the creamy sauce. If you don’t have rotini, penne or fusilli can work just as well. For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free pasta made from rice or quinoa.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the main protein here, but you can also use rotisserie chicken for an easier option. Just shred it and mix it in! If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist, consider sautéed mushrooms or tempeh.
Bacon: Bacon brings a delicious crunch and smoky flavor. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon or pancetta would be great alternatives. For a vegetarian version, try crispy fried shallots or chickpeas as a topping.
Ranch Dressing: Ranch dressing is key for flavor. If you want a healthier alternative, use a light or homemade ranch. For a different twist, a creamy garlic dressing or a yogurt-based dressing can work as well.
How Do I Cook Chicken Perfectly for This Dish?
Cooking the chicken properly is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper for flavor before cooking.
- Heat the skillet to medium-high. If there’s too much fat, the chicken won’t brown nicely.
- Cook the chicken in a single layer. If you crowd the pan, it will steam instead of brown. Work in batches if necessary.
- Cook for about 6-8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked through. Add minced garlic in the last 1-2 minutes so it doesn’t burn.
Following this method ensures your chicken pieces will be juicy and flavorful!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tbsp dried parsley)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients, and the cooking will take about 20 minutes. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until it’s nice and al dente. Once it’s done, drain it well and set it aside for later. This pasta is going to soak up all those delicious flavors!
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, heat it over medium heat and cook the bacon slices until they turn crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, remove the bacon from the skillet and crumble it into pieces. Set it aside, but don’t toss out the bacon fat! Leave about 1-2 tablespoons in the pan for flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now, if your skillet still has enough fat, you can skip adding extra olive oil. If it looks a little dry, drizzle in the olive oil. Add your seasoned chicken pieces (don’t forget the salt and pepper!) to the skillet. Cook these over medium-high heat until they are golden brown and cooked through, which should take about 6-8 minutes. During the last couple of minutes, add the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Combine Everything:
Reduce the heat to medium. Toss the cooked pasta into the skillet with the chicken. Pour in that delicious ranch dressing, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese, and add the chopped parsley. Mix it all together well so everything is coated and heated through. It should smell amazing!
5. Taste and Adjust:
Give it a taste and see if it needs more salt or pepper. Adjust to your liking before serving. Who doesn’t love a good flavor check?
6. Serve and Enjoy:
When it’s ready to go, plate up your creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta and sprinkle the crispy crumbled bacon on top. Add a bit more parsley for garnish if you like. Enjoy your hearty meal with family or friends!
Dig in and savor every cheesy, ranchy bite of your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is great for holding onto the sauce, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, like penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as necessary to achieve al dente texture.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken, pasta, and sauce in advance. Simply store each component separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, combine everything in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to prevent drying out.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftover Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it on the stove, stirring occasionally to heat evenly. You may want to add a little ranch dressing or cream to refresh the creaminess.
Can I Make It Healthier?
Yes! You can use whole wheat or chickpea pasta for extra fiber, swap regular bacon for turkey bacon or omit it entirely, and choose a lighter ranch dressing option. Adding extra vegetables like spinach or broccoli can also boost the nutritional value!
