Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This family favorite recipe features a cheesy, zesty sauce that's easy to make.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
- 8 ounces pasta such as cavatappi, penne, or medium shells
- 4 strips bacon diced
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch chunks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk 2% or whole
- 3 tablespoons ranch seasoning (1-ounce packet)
- 1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese 3 ounces
- 1 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 3 ounces
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Bring 3 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Add salt, then add pasta and cook according to package directions. Time will vary based on shape of pasta. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.8 ounces pasta
- While pasta is cooking, cook bacon in a large deep-sided skillet over medium-high heat until crisp, then remove and drain on paper towel.4 strips bacon
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper and Italian seasoning, then add to the skillet. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes. Remove chicken to a plate or bowl and cover to keep warm.1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, Salt and pepper, 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Reduce heat to medium. In the same pan, melt the butter, then whisk in flour to create a roux and cook for 2 minutes. Pour in the milk while whisking and cook, stirring occasionally, until thickened and bubbly. Reduce heat to low.2 tablespoons unsalted butter, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 2 cups milk
- Whisk in the ranch seasoning until blended, then add the cheeses, whisking until completely melted and smooth.3 tablespoons ranch seasoning, 1 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese, 1 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon, and stir well to coat everything evenly with the cheese sauce. Remove from heat and serve garnished with chopped fresh parsley, if you like.Chopped fresh parsley
