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Crispy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Elina James
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Pasta
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Crispy Chicken
  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • Oil for frying
  • For the Pasta and Sauce
  • 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or bow-tie)
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix (store-bought or homemade)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Crispy Chicken : Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes. In one bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs. Coat each chicken piece first in the flour mixture, then in beaten eggs, then in breadcrumbs. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken pieces until golden brown and crispy, about 4–5 minutes per side. Transfer to a paper towel–lined plate to drain excess oil.
  • Cook the Pasta : Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Cook the Bacon : In a large skillet, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove and set aside, reserving 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
  • Make the Ranch Cream Sauce :In the same skillet with bacon grease, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Sprinkle in flour and whisk to form a roux; cook for 1 minute. Slowly pour in heavy cream and chicken broth while whisking continuously. Add cheddar cheese and Parmesan; stir until melted and smooth. Stir in ranch seasoning mix. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer sauce for 3–4 minutes until thickened.
  • Assemble the Dish : Add cooked pasta into the sauce and stir to coat evenly. Mix in crispy bacon. Top with crispy chicken pieces. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.