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Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake

A comforting and easy-to-make creamy chicken pasta bake featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich cheese sauce that the whole family will love.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts Perfect for that tender chicken flavor and a great source of protein.
  • 6 strips cooked and chopped bacon Adds a salty, crispy crunch.
  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini recommended) Rotini holds onto the sauce wonderfully.
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Melted for creamy texture.
  • 2 cups half and half Key for creamy thickness.

Sauce and Seasoning

  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic Aromatic and irresistible.
  • 2 tablespoons butter For sautéing the garlic.
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour Helps thicken the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder Adds depth to the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning For herby goodness.
  • 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix Gives the dish its signature kick.
  • to taste salt and pepper Essential for flavor.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add 2 cups of rotini, and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
  • Add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour and stir continuously for about 1 minute.
  • Gradually whisk in 2 cups of half and half until smooth and creamy.
  • Season the sauce with salt, pepper, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and dry ranch seasoning. Let it simmer until thickened.
  • In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped chicken, cooked bacon, and cheddar cheese.
  • Pour the creamy sauce over the pasta mixture and mix well.
  • Transfer to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle additional cheddar cheese on top if desired.
  • Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  • Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Keep an eye on pasta to ensure it is al dente. Try using mozzarella or pepper jack instead of cheddar for variations.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 38gFat: 32gSaturated Fat: 16gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
Keyword Comfort Food, Creamy Chicken Pasta Bake, Easy Recipe, Family Dinner, Pasta Bake
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