Chicken Bacon Ranch Skillet on the Blackstone : A Family-Friendly Griddle Favorite

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and protein-packed meal the whole family will devour, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Skillet on the Blackstone is about to become your go-to. Packed with juicy chicken thighs, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, it’s everything you love in one skillet—and it comes together in under 30 minutes.

This recipe is perfect for fans of easy ranch chicken skillet dinners, lovers of outdoor cooking, and anyone trying to keep things low-carb or even paleo. It’s hearty, satisfying, and a total crowd-pleaser whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week.

Looking for more cast-iron or griddle-style meals? Try Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers or this family-favorite Loaded Breakfast Hash.

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Why This Recipe Works for Weeknights and Weekends

You don’t have to be a grill master to make this dish. The Blackstone griddle—or any flat-top or cast iron skillet—does most of the work. The chicken sears perfectly, the bacon crisps up beautifully, and the ranch flavor ties it all together into a skillet dinner that’s anything but boring.

Whether you’re cooking outdoors at a campsite or indoors on a stovetop skillet, this meal delivers the ultimate comfort food with easy cleanup. If you enjoy griddle cooking recipes and need family-friendly recipes with cast iron skillet versatility, this one checks all the boxes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe keeps it simple, but still delivers on big, bold flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing (homemade or store-bought)
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or preferred cooking oil)
• Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish

To keep it paleo, opt for sugar-free bacon, a dairy-free ranch, and skip the cheese. For another healthy skillet-style dinner, check out this Vegetable Casserole.

Kitchen & Griddle Equipment Checklist

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this dish a breeze:

• Blackstone griddle or large cast iron skillet
• Tongs and spatula
• Mixing bowls
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Cooking oil or spray
• Optional: meat thermometer (for perfectly cooked chicken)

Pro tip: Preheat your griddle for at least 10 minutes for best searing results.

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Skillet on the Blackstone

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Fire up your Blackstone griddle or heat a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Drizzle on the avocado oil and let it warm up while you prep the ingredients.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon
Add chopped bacon to the hot surface. Let it cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate, but leave the bacon fat for flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add your chicken thigh pieces directly into the bacon drippings. Season with salt and pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes to get a good sear, then flip and continue cooking until fully cooked through (internal temp 165°F), about 8–10 minutes total.

Step 4: Add Veggies
Toss in the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for another 3–5 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese & Ranch
Lower the heat slightly. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and drizzle with ranch dressing. Stir everything together until the cheese melts and coats the chicken and veggies. Add bacon back in and cook for 1–2 more minutes.

Step 6: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve hot!

Pair with Garlic-Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini or enjoy it over cauliflower rice for a low-carb dinner.

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Tips for Perfectly Cooked Chicken and Crispy Bacon

• Use thighs over breasts – They stay juicy and flavorful, especially for pan-fried chicken thighs.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – Give chicken pieces space to sear, not steam.
• Use bacon fat – It adds flavor and reduces the need for extra oil.
• Cheese last – Don’t add cheese until you’re ready to serve to avoid burning.

Want even crispier bacon? Cook it first, then use some of it as a crunchy topping right before serving.

Variations: Turn It Into a High Protein Chicken Bacon Ranch Burrito

Transform this skillet dinner into a high protein chicken bacon ranch burrito by wrapping the filling in:

• A large whole-wheat tortilla
• Low-carb or grain-free wraps
• Large romaine or butter lettuce leaves (for paleo-friendly burritos)

Add extras like avocado slices, spinach, or cooked rice for a meal-prep lunch that satisfies.

You could also create burrito bowls alongside Crack Breakfast Casserole for a weekend brunch idea.

Easy Paleo-Friendly Modifications

Want to keep it paleo and clean?

• Use avocado oil or ghee for cooking
• Skip the cheese or use dairy-free alternatives
• Choose paleo ranch dressing (homemade versions are easy!)
• Serve with veggies or greens instead of bread or tortillas

This makes it one of the best paleo recipes for the griddle—no processed ingredients, just whole, delicious foods.

Serving Ideas for Chicken Bacon Ranch Skillet Dinner

Here’s how to serve it up like a pro:

• Over mashed cauliflower or cauliflower rice
• In a bowl with roasted sweet potatoes
• With a crisp salad like this Cucumber Dill Salad
• Topped with a fried egg for brunch
• Alongside Parmesan Polenta Rounds for a rustic combo

However you plate it, the flavors shine.

Cast Iron or Griddle? Why Both Work

Whether you’re cooking indoors or outside, this recipe adapts beautifully:

• Blackstone Griddle – Great for outdoor cooking and large batch meals
• Cast Iron Skillet – Perfect for stovetop use with excellent heat retention
• Flat-top Grills – Work just like the Blackstone and are great for backyard meals

If you love outdoor cooking recipes, consider trying our Crescent Roll Mummy Hot Dogs for your next backyard gathering.

Outdoor Cooking Recipes Your Family Will Love

Looking for more ideas to make on the Blackstone or griddle? Try:

• Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir Fry
• 20-Minute Chorizo Tacos
• Sticky Honey Gochujang Chicken
• Crockpot Fajitas for an indoor version

From breakfast to dinner, these outdoor-ready meals are all easy, fast, and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Griddle Cooking Recipes

• Skipping the preheat – Always preheat your griddle for even cooking.
• Overcrowding – Cook in batches if needed to keep everything crisp.
• Adding cheese too early – It will burn if added before the last 2–3 minutes.
• Not drying chicken – Pat dry before searing for a good crust.

For more skillet techniques, check out our Creamy Reuben Soup made in one pot with deli-style flair.

Storage and Leftover Ideas

This skillet meal is great for leftovers. Here’s how to store and enjoy later:

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or microwave in 60-second bursts.

Turn leftovers into:

• A chicken bacon ranch salad
• A breakfast scramble
• A grain bowl with quinoa or rice
• Lettuce wraps for lunch

Add a side of Cheesy Mashed Potato Puffs to round out the next-day meal.

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FAQs: Chicken Bacon Ranch Skillet & Cooking Tips

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but monitor closely to avoid drying it out. Thighs stay juicier.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes! Just skip the cheese or use a low-carb ranch if needed.

Can I make this in advance?
Absolutely. Cook ahead and store in meal-prep containers.

What if I don’t have ranch dressing?
You can make a quick version with mayo, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, and lemon juice.

Can I cook this indoors?
Yes, a cast iron skillet works perfectly if you’re not using a griddle.

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For more protein-packed recipes, try our Protein-Packed Cottage Cheese Egg Bake or spice things up with Sweet Chili Meatballs.

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