Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce over pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty meal for the whole family.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 skillet
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
- 1 strainer
- 1 wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Leave about 1 tablespoon of grease in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and diced chicken. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
- Lower the heat, add the drained pasta to the skillet with the chicken. Pour in the ranch dressing and stir to combine.
- Add the crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
- Once heated through, remove from heat. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
This dish can be customized by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. For a spicier kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if needed.