Creamy Chicken Ranch Pasta Bake

Enjoy a comforting Chicken Ranch Pasta Bake, marrying creamy ranch flavors with chicken and bacon for a family favorite.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Resting Time 10

Total Time 1 5

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 550

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 ounces Penne Pasta Can be replaced with any short pasta.

For the Protein

2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Feel free to use rotisserie chicken.
4 slices Cooked Bacon (Chopped) Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option.

For the Ranch Sauce

1 packet Ranch Seasoning/Dressing Mix Homemade ranch seasoning can be used.
4 tablespoons Salted Butter Unsalted butter can be used to control salt levels.
3 cloves Minced Garlic Substitute with fresh garlic if preferred.
1/4 cup All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free flour can serve as a substitute.
2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream Half and half can be an alternative.
1/2 cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Pre-grated parmesan is an option.
to taste Black Pepper Feel free to use different pepper varieties.

For the Topping

1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Any cheese intended for melting can be used.
2 tablespoons Fresh Chopped Parsley Optional garnish for freshness.

Equipment

Large pot
Non-Stick Skillet
colander
Whisk
9x13-inch baking dish

Method

Preparation

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Season chicken breasts with ranch seasoning, cook in a skillet with olive oil until golden brown for 10-12 minutes. Let it rest after cooking.
In the skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic, whisk in flour, and then slowly add cream. Bring to a boil and stir in parmesan and pepper.
Chop cooked chicken and mix with pasta in the ranch sauce. Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Top with mozzarella and bacon, bake at 375°F for 20 minutes, then let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 700IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F. Cook pasta al dente, and consider adding extra cream for richness. Let dish rest before serving for better flavor.

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