Description
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
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 (Rotini recommended)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Instructions
- Cook the bacon until crisp in a large skillet over low heat. Set aside and reserve the drippings.
- Prepare the chicken by slicing it into thinner pieces and seasoning with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear the chicken in the reserved bacon drippings until golden and cooked through. Cube after it has rested.
- Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain it.
- Make the sauce by melting butter in the skillet, sautéing minced garlic until fragrant, adding flour, then gradually incorporating half and half. Stir in the ranch seasoning and cheese until smooth.
- Combine the pasta with the sauce, add the cubed chicken, and garnish with crispy bacon before serving warm.
Notes
For a healthier twist, consider using turkey bacon or adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American