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I stumbled upon this single-skillet tangy bacon chicken pasta blend last fall when I needed a fast, warming dinner option. Now it's what I turn to whenever I want a rich meal without tons of dishes. The mix of tangy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon makes the ultimate comfort food you can whip up in half an hour.
Even my super-choosy teen couldn't resist it, actually putting down their phone to eat. My next-door neighbor sent me a message asking what smelled so amazing. I've brought it to two potlucks and came home with an empty dish both times.
Single-Skillet Pasta Essential Elements
- Chicken breast: Solid protein foundation. You can swap in thighs too.
- Bacon: Adds that rich smokiness. The fat that cooks out flavors everything.
- Penne pasta: Perfect shape to hold all that creamy sauce.
- Chicken broth: Infuses the pasta as it cooks.
- Heavy cream: Makes the sauce incredibly smooth and rich.
- Ranch dressing: Ties all the flavors into one. The kind from the fridge works best.
- Cheddar cheese: Creates those wonderful melty spots throughout.
- Green onions: Adds a pop of color and balances the richness.
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Single-Skillet Pasta Preparation Approach
- Bacon Base:
- Start bacon in an unheated pan to draw out the fat. Take bacon out but save the drippings.
- Chicken Step:
- Brown chicken in the bacon fat for extra taste.
- Single-Skillet Magic:
- Toss uncooked pasta directly into the pan with liquids so it soaks up all the goodness.
- Gentle Cooking:
- Keep it bubbling gently, stirring now and then until sauce gets thicker.
- Final Touches:
- Mix in cheese, ranch, and bacon bits once pasta has softened.
- Fresh Finish:
- Sprinkle green onions on top for a fresh look and taste.
This dish came from playing around with leftovers one night. I found that cooking the pasta right in the liquids makes it taste way better. More bacon never hurts, and a splash of hot sauce really wakes it up.
Single-Skillet Pasta Ideal Companions
Serve with a simple green salad dressed with lemony dressing or some buttery toasted bread. A glass of chilled white wine or an easy-drinking beer goes perfectly with it.
Single-Skillet Pasta Tasty Twists
Try mixing in some cooked mushrooms, a handful of frozen peas, or swap in pepper jack cheese. Use milk instead of cream if you want something lighter. For a southwestern twist, add taco spices and top with avocado.
Single-Skillet Pasta Keeping Fresh
Keep in the fridge up to 4 days. Add a splash of milk when you warm it up. Don't try freezing it. Heat on the stove or in the microwave, giving it a stir every so often.
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This pasta has become my go-to for both everyday dinners and when friends come over. Something about these flavors together just works magic. My husband asks for it on his birthday every year, and I've had to share the recipe with my friend who couldn't stop talking about it. It's my foolproof crowd-pleaser.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I switch to a different pasta shape?
- Sure! Try medium shells, rotini, or farfalle. Just adjust the cooking time a bit to match the shape.
- → How can I make this dish less rich?
- Use light ranch, swap heavy cream for half-and-half, and cut back on cheese and bacon. It'll still taste great!
- → Is it possible to add vegetables here?
- Of course! Toss in broccoli florets, spinach, or frozen peas. Peas can go in near the end, and spinach right before serving.
- → My pasta's not done, but the sauce is gone. What should I do?
- Pour a bit more chicken broth or water—about ¼ cup—into the pan. Let it cook longer until the pasta is done.
- → Can this meal be prepared ahead of time?
- It's best when fresh, but leftovers last up to 3 days in the fridge. Add broth or milk when reheating so the sauce stays creamy.