Chicken Bacon-Style (Turkey) Ranch Mac Bake
This Chicken Bacon-Style (Turkey) Ranch Mac Bake is creamy, cheesy, and packed with smoky turkey bacon and tender chicken—perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep!
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz elbow macaroni
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing and adding a subtle fruitiness
- 1 pound chicken breast cubed
- 4 slices turkey bacon chopped
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.5 cup green onions sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preparation and Cooking
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook for 7 to 8 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken breast and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
- Add the chopped turkey bacon to the skillet with the chicken. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the turkey bacon crisps up. Remove from heat.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked macaroni, sautéed chicken and turkey bacon, ranch dressing, half of the shredded cheddar, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese. Toss until well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.
- Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes. Sprinkle sliced green onions over the top. Serve warm and enjoy.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Baking dish (9x13-inch recommended)
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Cheese grater (if shredding cheese fresh)
- Measuring cups and spoons
Notes
- Ensure macaroni is cooked al dente to prevent mushiness after baking.
- Season chicken and pasta well to maintain balanced flavors.
- Use measured ranch dressing to avoid a soupy bake.
- Crisp turkey bacon properly for texture contrast.
- Garnish with green onions for a fresh bite that balances richness.