Introduction
Creamy BBQ Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful weeknight dish that combines juicy grilled chicken, smoky bacon, and a rich ranch-cheddar cheese sauce. Topped with a drizzle of BBQ sauce, this pasta is not only easy to prepare but also packed with bold flavors that your family will surely love.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
– 450g chicken breasts, sliced
– 200g uncooked rotini or fusilli pasta
– 1 tbsp olive oil (15ml)
– 4 slices bacon, chopped (approximately 120g)
– 150g shredded cheddar cheese
– 240ml milk
– 120ml heavy cream
– 120ml ranch dressing
– 60ml BBQ sauce (plus extra for drizzle)
– ½ tsp garlic powder
– Salt & pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook pasta
Begin by boiling a pot of salted water. Once boiling, add the rotini or fusilli pasta and cook until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Cook bacon
In a large skillet set over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until the bacon is crispy and golden, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain any excess grease.
Sear chicken
Using the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the olive oil and then add the sliced chicken breasts. Sear the chicken until it turns golden brown and is fully cooked, roughly 6-8 minutes, depending on thickness. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for added flavor. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Make the sauce
Lower the heat on the skillet and add the milk, heavy cream, ranch dressing, and BBQ sauce. Whisk the mixture together until well combined and heated through, ensuring all the flavors meld together beautifully.
Add cheese
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese gradually, mixing until the cheese has melted completely, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
Combine
With the sauce ready, add the cooked pasta, the seared chicken, and half of the crispy bacon to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the creamy sauce.
Serve
Transfer the creamy BBQ bacon ranch chicken pasta to a serving dish. Finish by topping with the remaining bacon, a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce, and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for contrast and freshness.
Notes
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh side salad or garlic bread to soak up any leftover sauce.
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
For a lighter version, consider swapping out the heavy cream for a low-fat alternative or using turkey bacon instead of pork. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for an extra nutritional boost.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Pro Tips for Success
To maximize flavor, ensure that your chicken is seasoned well. Also, cooking the sauce on low heat prevents it from separating and keeps it creamy.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the components separately and combine them when ready to serve.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Absolutely! Cream cheese or mozzarella can also be delightful alternatives.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: If using gluten-free pasta, this dish can be made gluten-free.
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional information per serving includes calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fat, varying based on specific ingredient brands.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water to ensure it is seasoned. Cook until al dente for the perfect chewy texture. Drain the pasta and avoid rinsing to keep the starch that helps sauce cling to it.
Crispy Bacon
Cook chopped bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. This renders the fat and infuses a smoky flavor. Drain on paper towels to remove excess grease.
Searing Chicken
Use olive oil in a skillet to sear sliced chicken, ensuring it’s cooked through and has a golden exterior. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for added flavor.
Making a Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat before whisking together milk, heavy cream, ranch dressing, and BBQ sauce in the skillet. Stir until heated through for a smooth consistency.
Incorporating Cheese
Stir in shredded cheddar cheese into the heated sauce until melted and smooth, creating a rich and creamy texture.
Combining Ingredients
Toss the pasta, chicken, and half the crispy bacon in the sauce until everything is well coated for a unified flavor profile.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, any pasta shape you prefer can be used, though rotini or fusilli hold sauce well.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative, though the texture may vary.
How can I make it spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce for an extra kick.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Combine just before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Is this dish suitable for a crowd?
Yes, it can easily be scaled up by increasing the ingredient quantities to serve more people.
Conclusion
The Creamy BBQ Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta is not only a quick and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also a delightful blend of flavors that your whole family will enjoy. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch-cheddar sauce makes for a comforting dish that hits all the right notes. With its bold BBQ drizzle, this dish transforms a simple pasta into a savory masterpiece, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Transform your favorite flavors into a delicious pizza by topping a pizza crust with BBQ sauce, grilled chicken, crispy bacon, mozzarella cheese, and a drizzle of ranch dressing after baking.
Bacon Ranch Potato Salad
Combine roasted or boiled potatoes with a creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, chopped green onions, and shredded cheese for a hearty side dish suitable for summer gatherings.
Ranch Beef Tacos
Make tacos a hit by mixing ground beef with ranch seasoning. Serve in taco shells with your choice of toppings like cheese, lettuce, and diced tomatoes for a flavor-packed meal.
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
Fill tortillas with shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, cheese, and bacon, then grill until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese melts, creating a quick and satisfying meal.
Add a Salad
Pair your creamy chicken pasta with a fresh side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or a coleslaw can balance the richness of the pasta dish.
