Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, packed with savory flavors from tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce. It’s an easy, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The creamy texture combined with the smoky bacon and zesty ranch seasoning creates a delightful taste that everyone will love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken breast, diced
• Bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
• Ranch seasoning mix
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble once cooled.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant.
5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add ranch seasoning mix and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
7. Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet, mixing well.
8. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly with the creamy sauce.
9. Simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
10. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
• Add vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrition.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Swap chicken breast with rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Try different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk to retain creaminess, or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until heated through.

FAQs

How do I prevent the pasta from becoming dry when reheating?

Add a splash of milk or cream while reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance and reheat before serving.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or fusilli holds the sauce well.

Can I use store-bought ranch dressing instead of seasoning mix?

Yes, but it may alter the consistency; reduce the cream slightly if using dressing.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure the ranch seasoning is gluten-free.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.

Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?

Yes, but the sauce may separate slightly when thawed. Stir well when reheating.

What side dishes pair well with this pasta?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement it nicely.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely, just add it during the final steps to warm through.

How do I make it more flavorful?

Use freshly grated cheese, quality bacon, and season the chicken well during cooking.

Conclusion

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its simple preparation, combined with rich, savory ingredients, makes it a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to impress.

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