Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta – Creamy, Cheesy & Comforting
Introduction
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and al dente pasta are tossed in a creamy ranch‑flavored sauce with melted cheddar and Parmesan. It’s rich, satisfying, and guaranteed to be a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or serving guests, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic combo: Chicken, bacon, and ranch are a match made in heaven.
Creamy & cheesy: A luscious sauce with two kinds of cheese.
Family‑friendly: Hearty enough to please kids and adults alike.
Quick & easy: Ready in about 30 minutes.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
12 oz (340g) pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 chicken breasts, diced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
½ cup diced onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup milk
1 packet (1 oz / 28g) ranch seasoning mix
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat. Season diced chicken with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Aromatics
In the same skillet, add diced onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Stir in heavy cream, milk, and ranch seasoning mix. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Pasta, Chicken & Bacon
Add cooked pasta, chicken, and crumbled bacon to the sauce. Toss until everything is well coated and heated through.
Step 6: Serve
Divide among plates and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot for a comforting, cheesy meal.
Tips & Tricks
Extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Veggie boost: Stir in broccoli or spinach for freshness.
Make ahead: Cook bacon and chicken in advance to save time.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of milk.
Variations
Buffalo Ranch Pasta: Add buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
Loaded Version: Top with extra cheese and bake until bubbly.
Low‑Carb Option: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Tex‑Mex Twist: Add corn and black beans for a southwestern flair.
Serving Ideas
Pair with garlic bread and a crisp green salad.
Serve in a casserole dish for potlucks.
Garnish with extra bacon crumbles for indulgence.
Add a sprinkle of fresh chives for color and flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of fresh chicken?
Yes, it’s a great shortcut—just dice and add at the end.
Q: Can I use turkey bacon?
Absolutely, though flavor will be lighter.
Q: Can I make this without ranch seasoning?
Yes, substitute with garlic powder, onion powder, and dried herbs.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of dish that brings comfort to the table and keeps everyone coming back for seconds.