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BBQ Chicken & Ranch Pasta Bake is a delightful fusion of flavors that brings together the rich, smoky essence of barbecue chicken, the creamy tang of ranch dressing, and the satisfying texture of perfectly cooked pasta. This dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also serves as a comforting meal that is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with family and friends. With its hearty ingredients and simple preparation, this pasta bake has become a beloved staple in many households.

BBQ Chicken & Ranch Pasta Bake

Discover the mouthwatering BBQ Chicken & Ranch Pasta Bake, the perfect comfort food for busy nights or gatherings. This recipe marries the smoky sweetness of BBQ chicken with creamy ranch dressing and pasta, creating an irresistible dish that satisfies every palate. Easy to prepare, it allows for customizations to suit various tastes and dietary needs. With gooey cheese and hearty ingredients, this pasta bake is sure to become a family favorite! Enjoy creating your delicious masterpiece.
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Ingredients
  

2 cups rotini pasta (or any pasta of your choice)

1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded (using rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver!)

1 cup BBQ sauce (choose your favorite brand for the best flavor)

1 cup ranch dressing

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits (for an added crunch)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready for baking.

    Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.

      Mix the Sauce: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the BBQ sauce and ranch dressing. Stir the mixture until the chicken is completely coated in the sauces.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the BBQ chicken mixture. Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure an even distribution of flavors.

          Cheese It Up: Gently fold in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese into the pasta mixture. This will create a creamy base that enhances the overall texture.

            Transfer to Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure even cooking.

              Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the pasta bake. If you’re using bacon bits, scatter them on top for an extra burst of flavor and crunch.

                Bake: Carefully place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a delicious golden layer.

                  Garnish: Once finished baking, let the pasta bake sit for about 5 minutes to cool slightly. Then, garnish with chopped green onions, adding a fresh and vibrant touch.

                    Serve: Scoop generous portions onto plates and dig into your delightful BBQ Chicken & Ranch Pasta Bake!

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6 servings