why make this recipe
Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch flavors all mixed with pasta. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can please even the pickiest eaters. If you’re looking for a one-pan meal that’s sure to impress, this recipe is a great choice.
how to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne
Ingredients :
- 4 cups dry penne pasta, cooked and drained
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Ranch dressing mix
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, divided
- 2 tablespoons light virgin olive oil, divided
- 1 small white onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Ranch dressing mix
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
- 16 oz. cooked thick-cut bacon, chopped and divided
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, patted dry and chopped
- 3 cups Italian style cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Directions :
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, chicken, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 2 tablespoons Ranch dressing mix. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through (about 7-8 minutes).
- Sprinkle in the 1/2 cup flour and stir for about a minute.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream. Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, an additional 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon Ranch dressing mix. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer until the sauce thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, half of the chopped bacon, and the sun-dried tomatoes.
- In a large baking dish, combine the cooked penne pasta with the sauce mixture. Top with the remaining bacon and Italian style cheese. Drizzle with the remaining butter and olive oil.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until the dish is bubbly and golden. For an extra crispy topping, broil for the last few minutes of baking.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread.
- To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
how to serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne
Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne hot, garnished with fresh parsley to add a touch of color. It makes a great main dish and pairs nicely with a simple side salad or some garlic bread. You can also offer extra Ranch dressing on the side for those who want an extra kick of flavor.
how to store Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne
After enjoying this tasty dish, you can store any leftovers for later. Allow the Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or oven until heated through.
tips to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne
- Make sure the chicken is cooked thoroughly and browned nicely for the best flavor.
- Stir the sauce continuously while adding the chicken broth and cream to prevent lumps.
- For a bit more heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep.
variation (if any)
This recipe can be easily adapted. You can swap the penne pasta for any type of pasta you prefer, such as rotini or fusilli. If you want a healthier option, consider using whole grain or gluten-free pasta. For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken and bacon with grilled vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it first before cooking to ensure even cooking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, include jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mix.
Can I make Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve!