Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

from thecozycook.com
50 min
6 servings

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is an easy dinner idea that you can make on the stovetop or bake as a casserole! You’ll love the cheesy, creamy pasta with seasoned bites of chicken and crispy bacon.

Ingredients

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

Directions

  1. 1

    Cook the bacon in a large skillet over low heat (low and slow is best for bacon). Set aside and pour bacon drippings into a small bowl. Carefully wipe the skillet clean. Roughly chop the bacon once cooled.

  2. 2

    Cut the chicken breasts into thinner slices, 2-3 slices each. They will plump up more when cooked. Pat dry and season each side with a light sprinkling of salt/pepper, as well as onion powder and Italian seasoning.

  3. 3

    Now is a good time to boil salted water and cook the pasta. Drain once finished. Prepare the sauce while the pasta boils.

  4. 4

    Melt butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Sauté the garlic for 1 minute. Add the flour and use a silicone spatula to stir continuously for 1 more minute.

  5. 5

    Add the pasta to the skillet and use a silicone spatula to carefully combine with the sauce. Add the chicken and allow it to heat back up a bit. Garnish with bacon or stir it right into the sauce and serve!