The aroma of sizzling bacon and creamy ranch sauce wafts through the kitchen, instantly making your mouth water. Imagine a dish that combines tender chicken, savory bacon, and a rich pasta all in one pot—this is where Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta comes into play.
Jump to:
- Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- FAQs :
- What ingredients do I need for Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
- How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
- Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
- How can I customize my Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
- Conclusion for Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta :
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that takes you back to cozy family dinners or busy weeknights when comfort food calls. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying a quiet night in. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that makes every bite worth savoring.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is simple to prepare and full of flavor that everyone will love
- The visual appeal of the creamy sauce and crispy bacon makes it a feast for the eyes as well
- As a versatile dish, it can be served on its own or paired with your favorite side
- Plus, cleanup is easy with just one pot to wash!
Ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts, but feel free to adjust based on your crowd size.
Bacon: Choose thick-cut bacon for that extra crunch and flavor in every bite.
Pasta: Any short pasta like penne or rotini works best; they’ll hold onto the sauce beautifully.
Ranch Dressing Mix: The secret ingredient! Use a packet for convenience or make your own for a fresher taste.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth; low-sodium broth allows you more control over saltiness.
Cream Cheese: For that creamy texture that melds everything together perfectly.
Garlic Powder: A must for flavor; it infuses every layer with deliciousness without the fuss of fresh garlic.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Start by browning the bacon until crispy in your Instant Pot. Let the sizzle fill your kitchen as you enjoy this fragrant moment; trust me, it’s worth it. Once crispy, remove the bacon and set aside while leaving the delicious drippings in the pot.
Next, toss in your chicken breasts and sear them until they’re golden brown on both sides. This step enhances flavor and adds that beautiful color we all crave when cooking. Remember not to overcrowd the pot; work in batches if necessary.
Now it’s time to introduce our star ingredient: pasta! Pour in uncooked pasta along with chicken broth and sprinkle the ranch dressing mix over everything. Stir gently while taking in that irresistible aroma—it’s like hugging your favorite person after being apart.
Seal your Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for about five minutes. The anticipation builds as you imagine how flavors are melding together inside this magical machine. After cooking, allow for a quick release—just be careful of steam burns!
Once you’ve opened the lid, add cream cheese into the pasta mixture while stirring until melted and creamy goodness envelops every bite. Mix in crumbled bacon from earlier; this is where things get exciting!
Finally, serve hot with extra bacon sprinkled on top if you’re feeling indulgent—because why not? This dish deserves it! Enjoy each forkful while reminiscing about those cozy moments spent around the dinner table with loved ones.
And there you have it—Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta ready to delight your taste buds!
You Must Know
- This Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is not only a flavor explosion but also a total time-saver
- You can easily adjust the ingredients to match your pantry, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner
- The creamy sauce and crispy bacon make it a family favorite!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
First, sear the chicken until golden brown. This step locks in the flavors. Next, cook the pasta directly in the Instant Pot with the sauce for a creamy finish. Finally, stir in crispy bacon for that irresistible crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or even veggies for a lighter option. Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, and toss in fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra pop of flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly cooked chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F using a meat thermometer
- Don’t rush—the searing step adds incredible flavor to your dish
- Always taste as you go; adjusting seasoning can transform your meal!
I still remember the time I made this Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta for a casual family gathering. My cousin took one bite and declared it “life-changing.” Who knew a simple weeknight meal could bring so much joy?
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
To make Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, gather boneless, skinless chicken breasts, bacon, ranch seasoning mix, penne pasta, chicken broth, cream cheese, and shredded cheese. You will also need garlic and onion to enhance the flavor. These simple ingredients combine to create a creamy, flavorful dish that your family will love. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
How long does it take to cook Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
Cooking Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is quick and easy. The actual cooking time in the Instant Pot is about 10 minutes under high pressure. However, don’t forget to factor in the time it takes for the pot to come to pressure and the natural release afterward. In total, you can expect the entire process to take around 30 minutes from start to finish.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta. The Instant Pot is designed to cook frozen meat safely. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes if using frozen chicken breasts. Make sure that they are fully cooked before serving. This flexibility makes this recipe perfect for those busy nights when you haven’t had time to defrost your ingredients.
How can I customize my Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
You can easily customize your Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding vegetables like peas or corn for added texture and nutrition. You can also try different types of pasta or use Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a healthier twist. Experimenting with various seasonings will also allow you to create a dish that’s uniquely yours!
Conclusion for Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta :
Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delicious and convenient meal option that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch flavors in one pot. It’s quick to prepare—ideal for busy weeknights—and offers plenty of room for customization with your favorite vegetables or pastas. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can serve up a satisfying dish that everyone will adore! Try this recipe today and enjoy an effortless dinner experience!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delightful one-pot meal that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce with pasta for an unforgettable dining experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, this dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it a go-to comfort food that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 packet ranch dressing mix (1 oz)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode and cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside, leaving drippings in the pot.
- Add chicken breasts to the pot and sear until golden brown on both sides. Remove chicken once done.
- Pour in uncooked penne pasta, chicken broth, and ranch dressing mix; stir gently.
- Place the seared chicken on top of the pasta mixture. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes.
- After cooking, allow for a quick release of steam. Stir in cream cheese until melted and creamy.
- Mix in crumbled bacon before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sauté/Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 260g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 830mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
