If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor, this Chicken meal loaf Ranch Pasta is a must-try. Combining the savory goodness of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, cheesy ranch sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, delivering indulgence with every bite.
Why You’ll Love Chicken meal loaf Ranch Pasta
This dish has everything you could want in a pasta recipe. The creamy sauce clings perfectly to the pasta, the chicken is seasoned and cooked to golden perfection, and the meal loaf adds a satisfying crunch that complements the richness of the ranch dressing seasoning. Best of all, it’s easy to make and comes together in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy nights when you still want a homemade meal.
How to Make Chicken meal loaf Ranch Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 6 strips meal loaf
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, rigatoni, bow tie, etc.)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 cups half and half (or whole milk)
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Directions:
- Prepare the Cheese and meal loaf: Begin by shredding the cheddar cheese and setting it aside at room temperature, allowing it to soften slightly. This helps it melt more smoothly into the sauce. Next, cut the meal loaf into smaller squares. Heat a large skillet over low heat, add the bacon, and cook until it’s crispy, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pan. This will add incredible flavor to your dish. Once crispy, set the bacon aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- Cook the Chicken: While the meal loaf is cooking, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning, then toss the pieces with flour to coat them lightly. This helps to create a nice crust on the chicken as it cooks. Add the chicken to the skillet with the bacon drippings and cook over medium-high heat until golden brown, about 5 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your choice of pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter. Heat the half and half (or whole milk) in the microwave for about 40 seconds, then gradually whisk it into the skillet. This ensures the sauce will heat evenly and won’t curdle. Once the milk is fully incorporated, whisk in the shredded cheddar cheese and dry ranch dressing seasoning mix. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it into the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and gently stir to coat all the pasta in the creamy sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Before serving, sprinkle the crumbled meal loaf over the top of the pasta for a final touch of crunch and flavor.
Tips for Perfect Chicken meal loaf Ranch Pasta
- Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives the sauce a smoother texture. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the sauce before combining it with the pasta and chicken. If you prefer a stronger ranch flavor, add an extra tablespoon of dry ranch dressing seasoning mix. You can also add more garlic or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Choose Your Pasta Wisely: This recipe works well with various pasta shapes like rotini, penne, rigatoni, or bow tie. These shapes hold the sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- Make It Lighter: For a lighter version, you can use reduced-fat cheese and substitute half of the meal loaf with turkey bacon. You can also use whole wheat pasta or a vegetable-based pasta alternative.
- Make Ahead and Reheat: This pasta dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. If reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta before microwaving to prevent the sauce from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken meal loaf Ranch Pasta is a satisfying dish on its own, but you can serve it with some simple sides to complete the meal:
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks to soak up any extra sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts make a great side dish that adds some extra nutrition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute the cheddar cheese with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a combination of your favorites. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the sauce may change slightly depending on the cheese you use.
2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure the dry ranch dressing seasoning mix is also gluten-free.
3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce.
4. Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
Absolutely! You can add cooked vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach to the pasta for added nutrition and flavor. Simply stir them into the sauce along with the chicken and pasta.
5. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the pasta, chicken, and sauce ahead of time, then combine and bake just before serving. If making in advance, store the cooked ingredients separately in the refrigerator, then assemble and reheat when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delicious, comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Its creamy, cheesy ranch sauce paired with tender chicken and crispy bacon creates a dish that’s rich in flavor and satisfying in every bite. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or serving it at a gathering, this pasta dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, and enjoy the perfect blend of creamy, savory, and smoky flavors in every forkful!