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Sweet and Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Sweet and Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
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Sweet and Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy ranch sauce tossed with your choice of pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights and loved by the whole family.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 2 chicken breasts or thighs
  • 6 bacon strips

Pasta

  • 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)

Seasonings and Sauces

  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Dairy

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Oils and Fats

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Bacon: Begin by frying the bacon slices in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove them from the pan and set aside on paper towels to drain excess grease, but leave the rendered fat in the skillet to cook the chicken for added flavor.
  2. Sear the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts or thighs with salt, pepper, and a bit of ranch seasoning. In the same skillet with bacon fat, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until golden on both sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and let it rest before slicing.
  3. Prepare the Pasta: While the chicken cooks, boil salted water and cook your choice of pasta until al dente. Reserve about a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest and set the pasta aside.
  4. Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce: In the same skillet, add a touch of butter and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir in ranch seasoning and grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  5. Combine Everything: Add the sliced chicken, crumbled bacon, and cooked pasta into the sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to loosen it to your preferred consistency.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve immediately while warm and creamy for the best taste experience.

Notes

  • Use quality thick-cut bacon for extra smoky crunch.
  • Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
  • Reserve pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta.
  • Grate fresh Parmesan cheese for smoother melt and better flavor.
  • Season gradually, as ranch seasoning and bacon already add saltiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken pasta, creamy pasta, bacon ranch pasta, quick dinner, comfort food, creamy ranch chicken, easy pasta recipe

Find it online: https://elenaglam.com/sweet-and-creamy-chicken-bacon-ranch-pasta/