Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe

There's nothing like a bowl of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta to turn a busy evening into a comforting culinary delight. This creamy, cheesy dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and al dente pasta, all smothered in a rich ranch-flavored sauce.

this Recipe

I discovered this gem of a recipe during a potluck where it was the star of the table. It’s quick to make, uses simple ingredients, and delivers restaurant-quality results at home. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so irresistible!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite weeknight dinner. This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser for so many reasons.

First off, it's a one-pan wonder. With minimal cleanup and a streamlined cooking process, this dish is perfect for those nights when you want maximum flavor without the hassle.

Next, the combination of flavors is unbeatable. Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and tangy ranch seasoning blend together seamlessly to create a pasta dish that’s bursting with bold, comforting taste.

It’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re catering to picky eaters or looking for a meal to accommodate what’s already in your fridge, this recipe can adapt to your needs effortlessly.

Lastly, it's a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on taste. You likely already have many of the ingredients on hand, making this a wallet-conscious choice for feeding a hungry family.

Ready to make your kitchen smell like heaven? Let’s gather the ingredients!

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need and why each ingredient is essential:

Chicken: For this recipe, I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and remain tender. If you prefer, you can substitute with chicken thighs for a richer flavor.

Bacon: Nothing beats the crunch and saltiness of crispy bacon. It adds a smoky depth that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce. Be sure to save a little bacon grease for cooking the chicken—it’s liquid gold!

Pasta: Choose a pasta shape that holds the sauce well, such as penne, rotini, or bowties. Their ridges and curves ensure every bite is coated in that creamy ranch goodness.

Ranch Seasoning: A dry ranch seasoning packet is the secret ingredient here. It infuses the dish with its signature tangy, herbaceous flavor without overwhelming it.

Cheese: A mix of cream cheese and shredded cheddar ensures the sauce is ultra-creamy and cheesy. Feel free to sprinkle some Parmesan on top for extra indulgence.

Milk and Chicken Broth: These form the base of the sauce, creating a luscious, silky consistency that’s rich but not overly heavy.

Garlic: Because what’s a savory pasta dish without a little garlic? Its aromatic flavor ties everything together beautifully.

Special Equipment: While no fancy gadgets are needed, a large skillet or Dutch oven is essential for cooking everything in one pot.

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Making this dish is a straightforward process that yields incredible results. Here’s how to bring it all together:

1. Cook the Bacon: Start by frying diced bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving about a tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
2. Sauté the Chicken: Season diced chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then cook in the same skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the chicken to develop a golden crust before removing it and setting it aside with the bacon.
3. Build the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt a little butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Whisk in milk, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning, allowing the mixture to come to a simmer.
4. Add Cheese: Stir in cream cheese and shredded cheddar, whisking until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with a pinch of salt and pepper, if needed.
5. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken, bacon, and your choice of cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to ensure the sauce coats every piece.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while the pasta is warm and the sauce is irresistibly creamy.

This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner that tastes like it took hours to prepare.

Storage Options

If you happen to have leftovers (a rare occurrence!), this pasta stores beautifully.

• Refrigerator: Store the pasta in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: While the pasta can be frozen, the texture of the sauce may change slightly. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

To reheat, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe makes it easy to customize:

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp, turkey, or even tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and bacon and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted broccoli.
• Low-Carb Version: Swap out the pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
• Different Cheese: Experiment with Monterey Jack, Gouda, or Pepper Jack for a new flavor profile.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this dish your own—it’s hard to go wrong!

Final Thoughts

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed winner.

So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to whip up a dinner that everyone will rave about. Don’t forget to save some for yourself—it disappears fast!

Print