Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne Recipe

Indulge in the savory flavors of Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Get Instant Access to 1,000+ Recipes! Discover, cook, and enjoy every day. Install now to get started!

Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne Recipe

Ingredients:

For 1 person:

• 1 cup penne pasta
• 1 chicken breast, cooked and diced
• 3 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

For 3 people:

• 3 cups penne pasta
• 3 chicken breasts, cooked and diced
• 9 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 1/2 cups ranch dressing
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation:

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Level: Easy

Cuisine Type: Italian/American

Step by Step:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, bacon, ranch dressing, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in the cooked pasta until well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Nutrition Facts:

Calories per Serving: 450

Carbohydrates: 25g

Protein: 30g

Gluten content: Contains gluten

Pro Tip: Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne Recipe

How to Make It More Healthy

To make this Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne recipe healthier, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free penne pasta, low-fat or dairy-free ranch dressing, and turkey bacon instead of regular bacon. You can also add more vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for added nutrients.

Origin of the Recipe

This delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne recipe originates from Italian-American cuisine, combining classic flavors of chicken, bacon, ranch dressing, and pasta.

Best Time to Make It

The Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne recipe is perfect for dinner, as it is a hearty and comforting dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family. It can also be a great option for lunch the next day.

The Inspiration Behind the Recipe

The inspiration behind this recipe comes from the popular flavor combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing. The addition of pasta and cheese makes it a satisfying and delicious meal that is easy to prepare.

Best Way to Store

After making the Chicken Bacon Ranch Baked Penne, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and tasty meal.

How to Make It Gluten Free

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free penne pasta or any other gluten-free pasta alternative. Ensure all other ingredients, including the ranch dressing and bacon, are also gluten-free.

How to Make It Dairy Free

To make this recipe dairy-free, use a dairy-free ranch dressing and dairy-free cheese alternative. Ensure that the bacon used is also dairy-free or skip it altogether for a dairy-free version.

5 Things to Avoid While Making the Recipe

1. Avoid overcooking the pasta, as it can become mushy. 2. Do not skimp on seasoning, as the flavors of chicken, bacon, and ranch need to shine. 3. Avoid using too much cheese, as it can overpower the other flavors. 4. Do not overcook the chicken, as it can become tough and dry. 5. Avoid adding too much ranch dressing, as it can make the dish too salty.

5 Common Questions with Answers

Q: Can I use different meats instead of chicken and bacon? A: Yes, you can use ground turkey, sausage, or even vegetarian alternatives. Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when ready to serve. Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to a month and reheat when needed. Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer for this recipe. Q: Can I add extra vegetables to this dish? A: Yes, feel free to add more vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or peas for added nutrition.