Why You’ll Love This Instant Pot Chicken Ranch Pasta With Bacon Recipe
If you’re looking for a meal that’s both comforting and quick, you’ll absolutely love this Instant Pot Chicken Ranch Pasta with Bacon.
It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights! The combination of tender chicken, creamy cheese, and smoky bacon creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor.
Plus, using the Instant Pot means I can whip it up in no time, freeing me to spend more moments with family.
The best part? It’s a one-pot meal, making cleanup a breeze.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be adding this recipe to your regular rotation for sure!
Ingredients of Instant Pot Chicken Ranch Pasta With Bacon
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal that feels like a big hug in a bowl, the ingredients for Instant Pot Chicken Ranch Pasta with Bacon are essential. Gather these items, and you’re well on your way to creating a comforting dish that will have everyone asking for seconds. You might even catch yourself sneaking bites straight from the pot when no one is looking—trust me, I’ve been there.
Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering recipe:
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken thighs (or breast meat, if you prefer)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups milk
- 1 ounce ranch dressing mix
- 1 lb dry penne pasta
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 slices cooked bacon
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients. First off, feel free to swap chicken thighs for breast meat if that’s what you have on hand—both work like a charm, but thighs do tend to be a bit juicier.
And while we’re on the topic of swaps, low sodium chicken broth is a great choice to control the saltiness of your dish, but if that’s not available, regular broth will do. Just keep an eye on the seasoning later on.
Oh, and if you’re a cheese lover (who isn’t?), you could totally throw in some extra cheddar or even a different cheese for a fun twist. The creaminess of the cream cheese is non-negotiable though; it’s what really brings everything together in that creamy, dreamy sauce.
How to Make Instant Pot Chicken Ranch Pasta With Bacon
Making Instant Pot Chicken Ranch Pasta with Bacon is like taking a culinary shortcut to comfort food heaven. To kick things off, grab 1 ½ lbs of chicken thighs (or breast meat, if that’s your jam) and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Don’t forget to sprinkle on some salt and pepper; it really helps to bring out the flavor.
Next, fire up your Instant Pot and set it to the sauté function. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the chicken pieces. Sauté them for just a couple of minutes, or until they’re no longer pink. You might notice some bits sticking to the bottom of the pot—go ahead and scrape those up. Those little bits are packed with flavor and will make your dish even better.
Once your chicken is nicely sautéed, it’s time to add the fun stuff. Stir in 1 ounce of ranch dressing mix, along with 3 cups of low sodium chicken broth and 2 cups of milk. As if that’s not enough, toss in 1 pound of dry penne pasta. Yes, I said dry pasta—we’re getting cozy with the Instant Pot here.
Now, secure the lid on your pot, turn the valve to sealing, and set it to cook on high for just 4 minutes. Can you believe that? After it beeps, do a quick release on the pressure. A little tip: use the back of a wooden spoon to nudge the valve if you’re worried about hot steam—safety first, right?
Once the pressure is released, remove the lid and get ready for the magic. Stir in 8 ounces of cream cheese and watch as it melts into a creamy dream. Then, add in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese for that gooey goodness, and don’t forget to mix in 6 slices of cooked bacon—because bacon makes everything better.
Give it a good stir, and just like that, you have a bowl of creamy, cheesy, ranch-flavored pasta that’s ready to be devoured. Serve it warm and prepare for the compliments to roll in. And if you find yourself sneaking bites straight from the pot (no judgment here), just know you’re not alone in that delicious struggle.
Instant Pot Chicken Ranch Pasta With Bacon Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up that creamy, cheesy goodness in your Instant Pot, you might be curious about how to mix things up with substitutions and variations.
You can easily swap chicken thighs for breasts or even use ground turkey. If you’re looking for a twist, try adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.
For a lighter option, substitute whole wheat pasta or cauliflower pasta. You might even consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream cheese for a tangy touch.
And if you’re not a bacon fan, crispy turkey bacon or pancetta works great too! Enjoy experimenting!
What to Serve with Instant Pot Chicken Ranch Pasta With Bacon
To elevate your Instant Pot Chicken Ranch Pasta with Bacon, consider pairing it with a fresh side salad.
I love a simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers drizzled with a light vinaigrette. It adds a revitalizing crunch that complements the creamy pasta.
You could also serve garlic bread on the side for a comforting touch; the buttery flavor pairs beautifully with the dish.
Finally, don’t forget a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness.
These sides balance the meal and make it feel complete, turning dinner into something special. Enjoy every bite!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Instant Pot Chicken Ranch Pasta, keep in mind a few handy tips to enhance your cooking experience.
First, using chicken thighs adds more flavor, but breasts work just fine. If you prefer a creamier texture, increase the cream cheese.
Don’t forget to adjust the seasonings; a touch of garlic powder or onion powder can elevate the dish. If you want some veggies, add spinach or bell peppers before sealing the lid.
Finally, for leftovers, store them in an airtight container, and reheat gently to avoid overcooking. Enjoy your delicious meal!