Description
A creamy, cheesy, and flavorful pasta dish loaded with crispy turkey bacon, tender chicken, and a rich ranch-seasoned sauce. Perfect for a comforting meal!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (Rotini recommended)
- Water for boiling
- Salt for pasta water
For the Sauce:
- 6 strips turkey bacon
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the turkey Bacon:
In a large skillet over low heat, cook the turkey bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside, reserving the drippings. Once cooled, roughly chop the bacon.
2️⃣ Prepare the Chicken:
Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
In the same skillet with the turkey bacon drippings, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through (about 4-5 minutes per side).
Remove from heat, let it rest for a few minutes, then cut into bite-sized cubes.
3️⃣ Boil the Pasta:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4️⃣ Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly for about 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
Gradually pour in the half and half, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens.
Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and shredded cheddar cheese, continuing to mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5️⃣ Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
Stir in the cooked chicken, then sprinkle the chopped crispy turkey bacon on top.
6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with extra cheese or fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
✅ Pasta Choices: Rotini works best, but penne or bowtie pasta also hold the sauce well.
✅ Cheese Variations: Swap cheddar for a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for extra creaminess.
✅ Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
