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### **How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta**
#### **Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
#### **Step 2: Cook the Bacon**
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and cook them until they are crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, chop the bacon into small pieces and set it aside.
#### **Step 3: Cook the Chicken**
In the same skillet, add the chicken breasts (or thighs), seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook the chicken on both sides for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until it’s cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice it into bite-sized pieces or shred it.
#### **Step 4: Make the Sauce**
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and pour in the ranch dressing and heavy cream. Stir to combine, scraping up any brown bits left from the bacon and chicken. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Simmer the sauce for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
If you want an extra creamy and cheesy sauce, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese at this point and let it melt into the sauce.
#### **Step 5: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, Bacon, and Sauce**
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the ranch sauce, stirring to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Add the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet, mixing everything together. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
#### **Step 6: Serve and Garnish**
Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. You can also sprinkle a bit more cheddar cheese on top for extra cheesiness.
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### **Tips for the Perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta**
1. **Use Cooked Chicken for Convenience**: For a faster meal, you can use pre-cooked chicken, such as rotisserie chicken, instead of cooking the chicken from scratch.
2. **Add Veggies**: Want to make the dish even more nutritious? Add some steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas to the pasta. You’ll get added flavor and a burst of color.
3. **Customize the Sauce**: If you prefer a tangier ranch flavor, you can use a ranch dressing with more herbs or spices. Feel free to adjust the cream or cheese amount to suit your texture preference.
4. **Leftovers**: This dish stores well for leftovers! Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to bring back its creamy texture.
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### **Serving Suggestions**
– **Side Salad**: Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta with a simple side salad of mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes, drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
– **Garlic Bread**: No pasta meal is complete without some garlic bread. The crispy, buttery bread makes the perfect side for soaking up any leftover sauce.
– **Pair with a Cold Drink**: This dish pairs wonderfully with a chilled soda, iced tea, or a crisp glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc.
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### **Why You’ll Love Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta**
This recipe is a game-changer when it comes to comfort food. The creamy, tangy ranch sauce perfectly complements the savory chicken and bacon, while the pasta brings it all together in a hearty and satisfying way. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a casual dinner, or preparing a dish for meal prep, **Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta** is the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to time and time again.
It’s easy to make, customizable, and absolutely delicious. What’s not to love? Give it a try and watch it become a favorite in your dinner rotation!
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