Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole

This is what my kitchen looked like at 8:00 AM this morning.  

And this is what my kitchen looked like at 3:00 this afternoon... 

and I couldn't be happier about it.  This means that our long awaited kitchen remodel if finally underway!!!  😃 Yup, I'll just be over here doing my happy dance now! 😅

Obviously there'll be minimal cooking during the deconstruction phase of the remodel so we'll be relying on freezer meals ... AND the generosity of my neighbors who have graciously offered to let me borrow their ovens to warm our dinners.  😂

​This chicken bacon ranch casserole is one of the meals that I had prepped and frozen in anticipation of demo day.  I'm not normally a big casserole fan but this pasta and chicken creation with turkey bacon really peaked my interest.  It was delicious and I think you're going to like it too.  I recommend doubling the recipe - make one to savor now and one to tuck away in your freezer for another day.  ✌🏻

Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole
4 slices bacon, diced (or turkey bacon)
2 cups cooked chicken, cut into 1-inch chunks
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 Tablespoon Ranch Seasoning and Salad Dressing Mix
8 ounces rotini
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 Tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Sauce
2 Tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan

Melt butter in saucepan.  Add garlic and cook 1 minute. 

Gradually whisk in cream.  Continue whisking 1-2 minutes. 

Stir in parmesan.  Season with salt and pepper. 

Cook bacon in skillet until crispy.  Drain on paper towels. 

Toss chicken with ranch seasoning. 

Cook pasta according to directions. 

In a bowl, stir together pasta and chicken.  

Stir in cream sauce. 

Place mixture in a greased 9x9 baking dish.  (or 2 smaller dishes)

​Sprinkle with cheese. 

Sprinkle bacon over casserole.  

Cover and freeze OR bake 20 minutes at 375.   

Tomorrow we're going to get even more space added to our kitchen with the addition of a new pantry.  I feel like a kid at Christmas - I can hardly wait.  Not to worry - I'll be taking all of you along for this remodel ride along with us.  Look for another kitchen update soon.  

Caio!

Click here for a printable version of this recipe