Instant Pot Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

This amazing pasta dish has all the ingredients that make life good: bacon, ranch and cheese. OK, if I could figure out how to put chocolate in it, that would truly be heavenly, but no doubt this awesome dish will keep you coming back for more–it’s delicious. And in the Instant Pot (get yours here: https://amzn.to/2QmSPR1) it’s so easy!

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In this recipe, the noodles cook directly in the ranch sauce, soaking up all the delicious herbs and spices. Tender chicken and crispy bacon are folded into luscious, creamy cheesy sauce. It’s a family favorite that’s sure to please!

This amazing meal takes just 30 minutes from start to fork. You’ll want to add it to your family dinner rotation year-round.

And did we mention this is a one-pot meal? Having a dinner that comes together fast is only half the battle if it dirties every dish in the kitchen. This one-pot wonder is not only fast to prepare, it’s a snap to clean up.

The noodles cook directly in the ranch sauce, soaking up all the delicious herbs and spices.

Ingredients:

• 6 slices bacon, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into 3/4″ cubes
• 4 1/2 cups chicken broth (low sodium is best), warmed
• 1 packet ranch dressing powder
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 16 oz penne or rotini pasta
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 cup Monterey jack cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup half and half

Instructions:

1. Add bacon to the Instant Pot. Using the display panel select the SAUTE function and adjust to HIGH or MORE.
2. Cook and stir bacon until most of the fat is rendered, then add chicken and brown lightly on both sides, 2-3 minutes. Meat may not be cooked through.
3. Remove chicken and bacon to a plate, reserving drippings.
4. Add broth to the pot and deglaze by using a wooden spoon to scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Add ranch powder, garlic powder and chicken to the pot. Stir to combine, then add pasta to the pot and make sure it is submerged.
6. Turn the pot off by selecting CANCEL, then secure the lid, making sure the vent is closed.
7. Using the display panel select the MANUAL function*. Use the +/- keys and program the Instant Pot for 5 minutes.
8. When the time is up, let the pressure naturally release for 5 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure.
9. Stir in the cheeses a little at a time until melted. Add half and half and reserved bacon. Mix well and serve.

*The MANUAL and PRESSURE COOK buttons are interchangeable.