I recently found a recipe that’s now a favorite in my home: Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Bake. It’s a mix of cheesy, creamy, and satisfying tastes that you’ll love.
This easy-to-make dish is great for any night or a big event. It combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce. It’s a perfect combination.
Key Takeaways
- Learn how to make a delicious and easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Bake.
- Discover the secret to a creamy and cheesy ranch sauce.
- Get tips on how to customize the recipe to your taste.
- Find out how to make this dish in under an hour.
- Enjoy a satisfying and filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Introduction to Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Bake
This dish combines chicken, bacon, and ranch for a comfort food classic. It’s more than a meal; it’s an experience. The chicken, bacon, and tangy ranch are baked with penne pasta.
What Makes This Dish Special?
The Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Bake is special because of its creamy sauce and smoky bacon. The tender chicken adds to the flavor. The ranch seasoning gives it a unique twist, making it stand out.
Ideal Occasions for Serving
This dish is great for many occasions. It’s perfect for family dinners in the cold months. It’s also a hit at potlucks and gatherings.
Quick Overview of Ingredients
The recipe uses simple ingredients like chicken, bacon, penne pasta, ranch, and cheese. The ingredients are simple, but the flavors are complex. You can add veggies or change the ranch seasoning to your liking.
Essential Ingredients for My Penne Bake
My creamy chicken bacon ranch penne bake recipe has a few key ingredients. It’s a mix of protein, pasta, and creamy sauce. Together, they make a delicious meal.
Chicken: Choosing the Right Cut
The chicken type affects the penne bake’s taste and texture. I like using chicken breast for its lean protein and soft texture. But, chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier and tastier dish.
Bacon: Crispy or Chewy?
Bacon brings a smoky, savory taste to the dish. You can pick between thick-cut or thin-cut bacon. For a crispy texture, bake the bacon until it’s as crispy as you like.
Ranch Dressing Options
Ranch dressing is key for creaminess in the penne bake. You can buy it or make your own with buttermilk, mayonnaise, and herbs. For a richer taste, try a creamy ranch dressing or add some sour cream.
Pasta Varieties: Why Penne?
Penne pasta is perfect for this recipe because of its tube shape. It holds the creamy sauce well. You can choose whole wheat penne for a healthier option or regular penne for a classic taste.
| Ingredient | Options | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Breast, Thighs | Lean protein, Juicy flavor |
| Bacon | Thick-cut, Thin-cut | Crispy texture, Smoky flavor |
| Ranch Dressing | Store-bought, Homemade | Convenient, Customizable |
| Penne Pasta | Regular, Whole Wheat | Traditional taste, Healthier alternative |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step cooking instructions for the Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Bake. This section will guide you through preparing the chicken and bacon, cooking the penne pasta, combining all the ingredients, and finally baking to perfection.
Preparing the Chicken and Bacon
To start, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the grease, and set it aside to cool. Then, cut the bacon into small pieces. Next, cook the chicken in the same skillet until it’s fully cooked and slightly browned. Make sure to season the chicken with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Once cooked, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
Cooking the Pasta: Al Dente Perfection
Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. You can check if it’s done by biting into a piece; it should have a bit of firmness in the center. Drain the pasta and set it aside. For more detailed pasta cooking tips, you can visit this recipe page.
Combining Ingredients in the Baking Dish
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped chicken, crispy bacon pieces, and ranch dressing. Mix everything together until the pasta is well coated. Then, transfer this mixture to a baking dish. You can also add some extra shredded cheese on top for an extra creamy bake. For variations on this recipe, check out this other recipe.
Baking Techniques for the Best Results
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20-25 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly. Keep an eye on it to ensure the top doesn’t overcook.
By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Bake that’s sure to please.
Tips and Variations for a Perfect Bake
To make the Tasty Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Bake your own, add veggies like spinach or kale. These can be served alongside the dish. Roasted veggies or a simple side salad also work well.
Enhancing Flavor and Nutrition
For more flavor, use thick-cut bacon. Cook chicken in bacon grease if you’re using breasts. This makes the dish richer. Remember to save pasta water to thin the sauce if it gets too thick.
Wait to add salt until the end. Ranch seasoning and bacon can be quite salty. This helps balance the flavors.
Storage and Reheating
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta recipe suggests this. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding broth if the sauce is too thick.
For more ideas, check out the Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole Recipe. It shows how to use broccoli or spinach in your casserole.
Exploring More Recipes
Try a different twist with creamy pasta recipes. The Creamy Mushroom and Asparagus Chicken Penne is a great option. It offers new ideas for your Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Bake.
FAQ
What is Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Bake?
It’s a comforting pasta dish. It has penne pasta, chicken, bacon, and creamy ranch sauce. It’s topped with melted cheese and baked until perfect.
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Penne pasta is best, but you can try fusilli, farfalle, or rotini. Just remember, cooking times might change.
How do I achieve al dente pasta?
Cook penne as the package says until it’s tender but still firm. Drain and set aside. Overcooking makes pasta mushy.
Can I make this recipe without bacon?
Yes, you can skip the bacon. Use roasted veggies or sautéed mushrooms as a substitute.
How can I customize the level of spiciness in this recipe?
Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sauce. Or sprinkle cayenne pepper on the pasta before baking.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, cook pasta, chicken, and bacon first. Then assemble the dish. Refrigerate or freeze until baking time.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) or microwave for a quick meal.
Can I make a healthier version of this recipe?
Use whole-wheat pasta and less cheese and bacon. Or swap ranch dressing for a lower-calorie option.
Is this recipe suitable for large gatherings?
Yes, it’s great for big groups. It’s easy to make more and pairs well with sides like garlic bread or a green salad.
How to Make a Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Bake
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
A comforting pasta bake featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce baked with penne pasta and melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
1 lb penne pasta
2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
8 strips thick-cut bacon
1 packet ranch seasoning mix
1 cup ranch dressing
1 cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish
2. Cook bacon in large skillet over medium heat until crispy, remove and chop into pieces
3. Season chicken with salt, pepper and cook in bacon grease until golden brown and cooked through
4. Cook penne pasta according to package directions until al dente, drain and set aside
5. In large mixing bowl, combine ranch dressing, sour cream, and ranch seasoning packet
6. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and half the bacon to the bowl and mix well
7. Transfer mixture to prepared baking dish and top with both cheeses and remaining bacon
8. Cover with foil and bake 20-25 minutes, then remove foil and bake 5-10 minutes until golden
9. Let rest 5 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot
Notes
Can substitute chicken thighs for more flavor
Use whole wheat pasta for healthier option
Add vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition
Store leftovers covered in refrigerator up to 3 days
Reheat in oven at 350°F or microwave with splash of milk
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 465
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg