Name: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini); 2 chicken breasts, cubed; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup ranch dressing; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Salt to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

There's nothing quite like the irresistible combination of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta to brighten up a busy weeknight. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory flavors, this dish is a family favorite that always delivers smiles around the dinner table.

I first discovered this recipe during a hunt for something quick yet indulgent to make after a long day. With a few pantry staples and some leftover chicken, it came together like magic. Now, it's a go-to comfort food that satisfies every craving.

Why You'll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Get ready to embrace a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta will quickly become a weeknight staple for so many reasons.

First, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just one skillet and a pot for pasta, this recipe minimizes cleanup, making it a lifesaver on busy evenings.

The flavor is absolutely unbeatable. The creamy ranch sauce is infused with crispy bacon and tender chicken, creating a harmony of savory goodness in every bite.

Plus, it’s versatile! This dish can easily accommodate whatever you have on hand – swap the chicken for leftover turkey or try adding fresh vegetables for an extra boost.

Finally, it’s a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're feeding a family or hosting friends, this pasta always hits the mark.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Every ingredient plays an important role in crafting a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy to pull together.

Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe. Thighs stay especially juicy during cooking, but breasts work wonderfully too. Dice them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor. Its crispiness adds a delightful contrast to the creamy sauce, so don’t skip this ingredient!

Pasta: Penne, rotini, or shells are excellent choices for this dish. Their ridged surfaces help capture all the creamy ranch goodness in every bite.

Ranch seasoning: This is the star of the dish. Use your favorite store-bought packet or make your own blend with a mix of dried herbs, garlic powder, and onion powder.

Cheese: Shredded cheddar cheese gives the sauce its gooey richness. For added creaminess, you can mix in a bit of mozzarella.

Heavy cream and chicken broth: These two ingredients create the base of the luscious sauce. If you prefer a lighter option, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half.

No special equipment is needed – just a good skillet and a pot for boiling pasta will do the trick!

How To Make This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Crafting this dish is straightforward and rewarding. Let’s walk through the steps to create your new favorite pasta.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Drain it once it’s al dente, reserving a cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.

Meanwhile, in a large skillet, cook your diced bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and golden. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside, leaving behind a bit of the rendered bacon fat for added flavor.

In the same skillet, add your diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Season it with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside with the bacon.

Next, prepare the creamy sauce by adding heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning and whisk until the mixture begins to thicken. Add in shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it melts and creates a velvety sauce.

Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated, and adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water if necessary.

Cook for another minute to let the flavors meld together, then serve immediately with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or additional cheese on top.

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight cooking.

Storage Options

Got leftovers? No problem! This pasta stores beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or a quick reheat-and-eat lunch.

Refrigerator: Transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezer: While the texture of the sauce may change slightly, you can freeze this dish in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this dish is one of its best features. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:

Add vegetables: Toss in steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or peas for a pop of color and nutrition.
Switch up the protein: Swap the chicken for cooked turkey, ham, or even shrimp for a fresh twist.
Try different cheeses: Experiment with Monterey Jack, Parmesan, or Gouda for a unique flavor profile.
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a hint of heat.
Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your ranch seasoning is gluten-free too.

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a recipe you'll find yourself making on repeat. With its comforting flavors and endless possibilities, it’s a dish that feels like home every time. Dive in, and enjoy!