Why Make This Recipe
Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch flavors with perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s a great choice for family dinners or potlucks, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table. The blend of flavors and textures makes it stand out, and it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
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, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, chicken, salt, pepper, and Ranch dressing mix. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
- Sprinkle the flour into the pan, stirring to combine for about a minute.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream. Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, and an additional pinch of salt along with 1 tablespoon Ranch dressing mix. Bring it 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 and 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.
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne
Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Everyone will love digging into this creamy, cheesy delight.
How to Store Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne
To store any leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through before serving again.
Tips to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Make sure to cook the penne pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook in the oven.
- Flavor Boost: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Bacon Lovers: Use more bacon for an even richer taste, or try different types of cheese for variety.
Variation
If you want to try something different, you can substitute turkey bacon for a lighter option. You can also replace the chicken with shrimp or use a combination of both for a seafood twist.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish and assemble it a day ahead. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
2. Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and heat in the oven until warmed through.
3. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?
Yes! You can substitute the chicken with a mix of your favorite vegetables, like mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers, and omit the bacon or use a vegetarian bacon alternative.