Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Macaroni is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy macaroni in a rich ranch-infused cheese sauce. This hearty meal brings together classic mac and cheese with savory additions, making it perfect for any occasion. With its creamy texture and savory toppings, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cups macaroni
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cubed)
- 8 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the macaroni: Boil macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: In a large skillet, cook cubed chicken over medium heat until fully cooked and lightly browned. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Prepare the cheese sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes. Gradually whisk in milk, cooking until the sauce thickens. Add cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Mix in ranch: Stir ranch dressing, garlic powder, and onion powder into the cheese sauce.
- Combine ingredients: Mix the cooked macaroni, chicken, and cheese sauce together in a large bowl. Fold in crumbled bacon.
- Bake (optional): Transfer mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
- Serve: Garnish with extra bacon or fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- Cheese Options: Swap cheddar or mozzarella for other favorite cheeses if desired.
- Bacon Alternatives: Use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
- Make Ahead: The dish can be prepared in advance and refrigerated. Bake before serving for the best results.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet and Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 700
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Chicken, Bacon, Macaroni, Ranch, Cheese, Comfort Food, Recipe