The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta: An Irresistible 20-Minute Dinner with Chicken, Bacon, and Ranch 🍝🥓✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for an easy quesadillas recipe that turns into a crowd-pleasing dinner in just 20 minutes, look no further than The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This dish combines the smoky goodness of chicken and bacon with a creamy ranch-infused sauce, making it perfect for weeknights when time is limited but flavor is non-negotiable. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this 20 minute dinner recipe delivers satisfying comfort with every bite.
2. Key Ingredients for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips or cubes
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk for a lighter option
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Pasta of choice (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
For added richness and flavor, consider incorporating chopped garlic or sautéed onions. Looking to diversify your menu? Explore other quick chicken recipes like chicken Alfredo recipe or creamy Dijon chicken.
3. Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Bold 1. Cook the Pasta
Begin by boiling water in a large pot, adding a pinch of salt. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
Bold 2. Prepare the Chicken and Bacon
While the pasta cooks, heat a high-quality nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter, then sauté the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. In a separate pan, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
Bold 3. Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce
In the same skillet, add garlic if desired, then stir in the ranch seasoning mix. Pour in heavy cream or milk, stirring constantly. Add grated Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
Bold 4. Combine & Serve
Mix the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, and sauce together until evenly coated. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor. For a satisfying twist, incorporate some easy chicken parmesan pasta for more cheesy goodness.
4. Storage Tips for Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture. This dish also freezes well for meal prep, just make sure to consume within 2 months for best flavor.
5. Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Dinner
Pair this delightful Marry Me Chicken Pasta with a crisp side salad or garlic bread. For added freshness, sprinkle chopped parsley or basil on top before serving. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it with a side of steamed vegetables or a light garlic butter chicken for a complete meal.
6. Benefits of Making an Easy Quesadillas Recipe Variations
Looking to diversify your quick-dinner repertoire? This easy quesadillas recipe can serve as inspiration for quick, cheesy meals that complement the richness of the Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Explore other dinner ideas that match your palate and schedule.
7. Additional Kitchen Tools to Simplify Your Cooking
- Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker – perfect for quick beverages to pair with your dinner
- Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – make prep work faster and safer
- Crock-Pot Family-Size Slow Cooker – ideal if you want to prepare certain components in advance
8. Frequently Asked Questions About Marry Me Chicken Pasta
Can I make Marry Me Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, this dish stores well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain the creamy texture.
Is Marry Me Chicken Pasta suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! Simply substitute regular pasta with gluten-free pasta options available at most supermarkets.
Can I customize this recipe with additional vegetables?
Yes, adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrient content. If you’d like more ideas, visit our creamy Tuscan chicken pasta recipe for inspiration.
9. Conclusion
The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta is the ultimate quick dinner, combining savory chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch sauce on a bed of perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish guarantees a crowd-pleasing meal every time. For more delicious dinner ideas, explore our full collection of dinner recipes and elevate your cooking game now!
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The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Not specifically gluten-free, adaptable
Description
Discover the irresistible flavor of The Best Marry Me Chicken Pasta, a quick and creamy 20-minute dinner featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a savory ranch sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals, this dish combines richness and comfort in every bite, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips or cubes
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk for a lighter option
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Pasta of choice (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
Instructions
- Begin by boiling water in a large pot, adding a pinch of salt. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- While the pasta cooks, heat a high-quality nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter, then sauté the chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. In a separate pan, cook the bacon until crispy, then crumble and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic if desired, then stir in the ranch seasoning mix. Pour in heavy cream or milk, stirring constantly. Add grated Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Mix the cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, and sauce together until evenly coated. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor. For a cheesy variation, consider adding additional cheese or spices.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add chopped garlic or sautéed onions during the sauce preparation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess.
- This dish freezes well; consume within 2 months for best taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 610 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 42 g
- Saturated Fat: 18 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg