Description
Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Healthy Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta! Packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a flavorful ranch sauce, this dish combines indulgence with nutritious ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, it’s a family favorite that everyone will love. Easy to prepare and customizable with your favorite greens or vegetables, this pasta recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers seeking a healthy twist on a classic comfort dish.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- 2 skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (preferably homemade)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup spinach (optional for added greens)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside on paper towels. In the same skillet, add sliced chicken, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking.
- In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, ranch dressing, and a splash of the pasta water for a smooth consistency. Mix well. Pour this mixture into the skillet with chicken and garlic, adding spinach if desired. Stir until well combined and heated through.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy sauce. Sprinkle the cooked bacon over the top and garnish with fresh parsley for vibrant flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use turkey bacon or light ranch dressing.
- You can add extra vegetables like cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added freshness.
- This dish is best served immediately but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of recipe)
- Calories: 550 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 64 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg