Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) of your favorite pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (use leftovers or rotisserie chicken)
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup heavy cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, then keep warm.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then crumble into pieces. Save the bacon fat in the skillet for added flavor if desired.
- In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add shredded cooked chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in ranch dressing, heavy cream (or Greek yogurt), and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well and cook gently until the sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon into the skillet. Toss until evenly coated with the sauce. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top and allow it to melt for a minute or two.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives. Serve hot for a comforting, satisfying dinner. Pair with a green salad or garlic bread for the perfect meal.
Notes
- Use freshly cooked or rotisserie chicken for maximum flavor.
- Cook the bacon until crispy for a delightful crunch.
- Simmer the sauce gently to prevent it from breaking.
- Adjust the ranch flavor to suit your taste by adding more or less dressing.
- Reserve some pasta water to help loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Contains Dairy, Contains Meat
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 900 mg
- Fat: 30 g
- Saturated Fat: 15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg