Prep time: 15 MINUTES | Cook time: 30 MINUTES | Total time: 45 MINUTES | Yield: 4 SERVINGS
A make-ahead casserole that is perfect on the day, even the next day! Packed with Ranch chicken, homemade alfredo sauce, and bacon, this sure is a creamy, cheesy, and comforting dish that everyone will love!
INGREDIENTS
4 slices bacon, diced
2 boneless, skinless chicken thighs*, cut into 1” chunks
1 tbsp. olive oil
1 tbsp. Ranch Seasoning and Salad Dressing Mix, or more, to taste
8 oz. rotini
1 c shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 c shredded cheddar cheese
2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley leaves
ALFREDO SAUCE:
2 tbsp. unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 c heavy cream, or more, to taste
1/4 c freshly grated Parmesan
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Prepare the oven. Preheat it to 375 degrees F.
Step 2: Using a nonstick spray, lightly grease a 9 x 9-inch baking dish.
Step 3: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add in the garlic and cook for about a minute or two, frequently stirring until fragrant.
Step 4: Slowly stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, constantly stirring until combined.
Step 5: Add in the Parmesan, stirring for 1 to 2 minutes more until a bit thickened. Add extra heavy cream if the mixture is too thick. To taste, season with salt and pepper and set aside.
Step 6: Cook the bacon in a large heated skillet over medium-high heat for about 6 to 8 minutes or until brown and crispy. When done, drain excess grease, keeping a tbsp in the skillet. Place the cooked bacon on a paper towel-lined plate and set aside.
Step 7: Put the chicken, a tbsp olive oil, and the ranch seasoning in a gallon-sized Ziploc bag. Shake until fully coated.
Step 8: Transfer the chicken into the same skillet and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on both sides until completely cooked. Set aside.
Step 9: Cook the pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water following the package directions and drain.
Step 10: Transfer the cooked pasta into the prepared baking dish, add the chicken and alfredo sauce on top, and sprinkle over the cheeses and bacon.
Step 11: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 to 20 minutes or until bubbly and heated through.
Step 12: If desired, garnish with parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts:
Amount Per Serving: Calories 829.0 Calories from Fat 505.8, Total Fat 56.2g 86%, Saturated Fat 30.0g 150%, Trans Fat 0.3g, Cholesterol 181.3mg 60%, Sodium 940.7mg 39%, Total Carbohydrate 50.1g 17%, Dietary Fiber 1.9g 8%, Sugars 2.1g, Protein 29.6g 59%
