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Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

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A comforting and creamy pasta dish featuring chicken, bacon, and a ranch sauce that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

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  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 6 strips bacon
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 cups uncooked rotini pasta
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons flour
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 2 cups half and half
  • 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot and cook rotini until al dente. Drain and reserve a cup of pasta water.
  2. Crisp the bacon: In a skillet, cook bacon strips until crispy, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and let drain on paper towels.
  3. Sauté the chicken: In the same skillet, season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Cook for 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown. Let rest before slicing.
  4. Make the sauce: Sprinkle flour into the remaining bacon fat in the skillet, stirring to create a roux. Gradually add half and half while whisking until thickened (about 4–5 minutes).
  5. Add flavor: Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning. Mix in ranch dressing and cheese until melted and creamy.
  6. Combine everything: Stir cooked pasta, bacon, and chicken into the sauce until everything is well-coated. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.

Notes

For a veggie option, skip the chicken and bacon and add sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.

Nutrition

Keywords: comfort food, pasta, chicken, bacon, ranch

Find it online: https://basilboard.com/chicken-bacon-ranch-pasta/