CHICKEN RANCH PASTA BAKE

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 35 mins | Yield: 4 Servings

You will never regret trying this very simple yet bursting with flavour chicken ranch pasta bake. It is super easy and quick to make any time and even with your busy schedule. A very impressive and satisfying weeknight dinner with chicken, bacon, ranch seasoning, and mozzarella cheese!

INGREDIENTS :

• 10 ounces dried penne pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut in 1” pieces
• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning/dressing mix

Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1/2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning/dressing mix
• 1-pint heavy whipping cream
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
• 4 slices cooked bacon chopped
• fresh chopped parsley optional

DIRECTIONS :

Step 1: Following the package directions, cook the penne pasta in a large pot of boiling water until al dente. Drain when done and rinse under cold water.

Step 2: On the entire chicken, rub the seasoning.

Step 3: Grease a large non-stick skillet with cooking spray.

Step 4: Add the chicken to a skillet and cook for about 10 minutes over medium-high heat until brown. Transfer the chicken to a clean plate when done and tent with foil to keep warm.

Step 5: Using paper towels, wipe the skillet clean. Add the butter and melt. Once melted, add the garlic to the skillet and saute until fragrant. Then, stir in the flour and ranch seasoning. Continue to cook for a minute more. Now, add the heavy whipping cream, stir and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 6: When done, take the skillet off the heat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.

Step 7: To the sauce, add the pasta and toss to coat.

Step 8: Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan and prepared the oven. Preheat it to 375 degrees F or 190 degrees C.

Step 9: Into the prepared pan, pour the mixture and evenly spread. On top, sprinkle the Mozzarella cheese, then crumbled bacon.

Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 20 minutes or until the cheese has melted and browned.

Step 11: Let the pasta bake rest for a couple of minutes. Serve garnished with some freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy!