why make this recipe
Creamy BBQ Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta is a fantastic dish that combines savory flavors with a creamy texture. It is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The combination of grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich sauce makes it a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be ready in just a short amount of time.
how to make Creamy BBQ Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked crispy bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Cook Pasta: Boil rotini until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make Sauce: In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
- Combine: Add the cooked pasta into the sauce and toss to coat every piece of pasta evenly.
- Assemble: Top the pasta with the grilled chicken slices and crumbled bacon. Drizzle a generous amount of BBQ sauce on top.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
how to serve Creamy BBQ Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta
Serve this delicious pasta in bowls and make sure to add extra BBQ sauce for those who love a bolder flavor. A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs well to round out the meal.
how to store Creamy BBQ Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little extra cream or water if needed to keep it creamy.
tips to make Creamy BBQ Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta
- For added flavor, marinate the chicken in BBQ sauce before grilling.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add your favorite veggies like bell peppers or broccoli to increase the nutrition.
variation
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the chicken with grilled vegetables or a meat alternative. You can also use different types of cheese, like mozzarella or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
FAQs
Can I use different pasta types?
Yes, any pasta shape works well in this recipe. Penne, fusilli, or spaghetti are great alternatives.
What if I don’t have BBQ sauce?
You can use more ranch dressing or a combination of ketchup and smoked paprika as a substitute for BBQ sauce.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time and combine them just before serving. This helps to save time on busy days.
Creamy BBQ Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, grilled and sliced For added flavor, marinate in BBQ sauce before grilling.
- 8 oz rotini pasta You can substitute with other pasta shapes like penne or fusilli.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Feel free to use mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor.
- 1/2 cup cooked crispy bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup heavy cream Add extra cream or water when reheating to maintain creaminess.
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing Can be substituted with more BBQ sauce if needed.
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce Plus extra for drizzling on top.
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Boil rotini until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Making the Sauce
- In a pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream, ranch dressing, salt, pepper, and cheddar cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Combining Ingredients
- Add the cooked pasta into the sauce and toss to coat every piece of pasta evenly.
Assembling the Dish
- Top the pasta with the grilled chicken slices and crumbled bacon. Drizzle a generous amount of BBQ sauce on top.
Garnishing
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.