Description
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delightful fusion of creamy ranch sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish combines rich flavors and easy preparation.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz dry penne pasta (or rotini)
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled (divided)
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
- 1 packet (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix
- 3/4 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta & Sear Chicken: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil penne in salted water until al dente; drain. In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter with 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder; sear for 5 to 6 minutes until cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- Make Ranch Sauce: In the same skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tbsp butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Whisk in heavy cream, chicken broth, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning until melted and velvety smooth.
- Combine & Assemble: Add cooked penne, seared chicken, and half the crumbled bacon into the sauce; toss to coat. Transfer to a baking dish. Top with 2 cups mozzarella cheese and remaining crispy bacon.
- Bake Until Bubbly: Bake uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbling with golden brown spots.
- Garnish & Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 1180mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 110mg