Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta is a delicious and easy meal that combines the savory flavors of chicken, crispy bacon, and cheesy goodness. It’s a perfect dish for busy weeknights when you want something comforting and satisfying. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful pasta dish in no time. Plus, everyone loves cheese and bacon!

How to Make Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta

Ingredients:

• 6 strips Bacon
• 2 Chicken breasts, small boneless skinless
• 1 tbsp Garlic
• 1 tsp Onion powder
• 2 cups Pasta
• 2 tbsp Flour
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tbsp Ranch dressing seasoning mix, dry
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 2 cups Cheddar cheese
• 2 cups Half and half

Directions:

1. Cook the bacon in a large skillet until crispy. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, cook the chicken breasts until golden and cooked through. Remove and cube the chicken.
3. In the skillet, add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add the flour and stir for another minute.
5. Slowly whisk in the half and half and bring to a simmer.
6. Stir in the onion powder, Italian seasoning, and ranch dressing mix.
7. Add the cooked pasta and cubed chicken to the sauce and mix well.
8. Add in the cheese and stir until melted.
9. Crumble the bacon on top and serve hot.

How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta

Serve Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta hot, straight from the skillet. You can garnish it with extra cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will keep well for about 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or warm it up in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or water if the pasta seems dry.

Tips to Make Cheesy Chicken Bacon Pasta

• Cook the bacon until it’s really crispy for the best texture.
• Make sure your chicken is cooked through before cubing it.
• Stir the sauce constantly to prevent lumps when adding the flour and half and half.
• Feel free to mix in other vegetables, like spinach or broccoli, for added nutrition.

Variation

You can easily make this recipe your own! Substitute the cheddar cheese with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor. You can also use turkey bacon for a healthier option or add some crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

FAQs

1. Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, such as penne, fusilli, or rotini. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions.

2. Is there a way to make this recipe lighter?
To make a lighter version, you can use low-fat cheese and substitute the half and half with milk or a non-dairy milk alternative.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta when you are ready to serve, and warm up the sauce before adding the pasta.