This Easy Blackstone Chicken Bacon Ranch Skillet is a tasty one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy nights. Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch come together for a meal that everyone will love!
I can’t resist the mix of flavors and textures in this skillet. Plus, it’s super easy – just cook and serve! I always pair it with some bread to soak up that yummy ranch sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the dish. You can use ground turkey if you prefer a leaner option, or even diced chicken breasts for a chunkier texture.
Bacon: I love using crisp bacon for flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon works well too, though it won’t be as crispy.
Onion: Yellow onions are my go-to for sweetness; however, you can swap for shallots or green onions if you want a milder flavor.
Ranch Dressing: Homemade ranch dressing can add a personal touch. You can also try other dressings like blue cheese for a different taste, or even a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter version.
Cheese: I recommend using a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for creaminess. If you’re feeling adventurous, pepper jack adds a nice kick!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Cooks Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken just right is key to this dish! Here’s how to do it:
- Before adding chicken, make sure your skillet is hot enough. This helps in searing the chicken and locking in juices.
- Cook the chicken in smaller pieces to ensure it cooks evenly. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks.
- Keep stirring until it’s no longer pink, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. A meat thermometer is handy; chicken should reach 165°F.
- Don’t rush it! Give it time to brown slightly, as this adds depth to the flavor.
How to Make Easy Blackstone Chicken Bacon Ranch Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at approximately 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Griddle:
Start by preheating your Blackstone griddle or a large skillet over medium heat. This ensures that everything cooks evenly and quickly. You want it nice and hot for that perfect sear!
2. Cook the Bacon:
Next, toss the chopped bacon onto the griddle. Cook it until it’s crispy and delicious! Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside on a plate. Don’t forget to leave some of the lovely bacon grease in the griddle—this adds flavor to our dish!
3. Sauté the Onions:
Add the diced onion to the griddle, stirring it in the bacon grease. Sauté until the onions are tender and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. You’ll love the aroma as they cook!
4. Cook the Chicken:
Now, add the ground chicken along with the garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until the chicken is no longer pink and fully cooked—about 5-7 minutes. Keep stirring to ensure it cooks evenly!
5. Combine Ingredients:
Once the chicken is cooked through, add the crispy bacon back into the skillet. Drizzle the ranch dressing over everything and give it a good stir to coat all the ingredients.
6. Add the Cheese:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the chicken mixture. Allow it to melt for a couple of minutes. When the cheese is nice and bubbly, you’ll know it’s ready!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, remove the skillet from heat. If using, garnish your chicken bacon ranch skillet with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve it warm, and enjoy it with some bread, rice, or a side salad for a complete meal!
This Easy Blackstone Chicken Bacon Ranch Skillet is sure to be a hit! Enjoy the delicious flavors and easy cleanup!
Easy Blackstone Chicken Bacon Ranch Skillet FAQ
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef or turkey for the ground chicken if you prefer a richer flavor or a leaner option. Just make sure to adjust cooking times if using larger chunks of meat, like diced chicken breasts.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
If you want a dairy-free version, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and flavor.
Can I Prepare This in Advance?
Yes! You can cook the chicken and bacon mixture ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of ranch dressing to keep it moist.
What are Some Good Side Dishes to Serve With This?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple salad, roasted veggies, or even over rice or pasta. If you want to keep it low-carb, serve it with cauliflower rice!
