Description
This One-Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Delight is a creamy and savory comfort food that combines tender chicken, crispy turkey bacon, and a rich ranch-infused sauce. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for weeknights or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp butter, divided
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Cook turkey bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside.
- Melt 1 tbsp butter in the skillet. Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then cook for 6-8 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add remaining butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and ranch seasoning. Simmer until thickened.
- Mix pasta, chicken, and half the bacon into the sauce. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
- Garnish with remaining bacon and parsley. Serve hot.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with milk or half-and-half.
- Add vegetables like broccoli or peas for added nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: One-Pot
- Cuisine: American