Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and pasta tossed in a rich, ranch-flavored cream sauce. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty yet easy to prepare. The ranch seasoning adds a tangy kick that pairs beautifully with the smokiness of the bacon, while the creamy sauce coats every bite of pasta in indulgent goodness. It’s a family-friendly dish that appeals to both kids and adults, and it’s versatile enough to serve as a main course or alongside a fresh salad and garlic bread. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this pasta dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor right at home.
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Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta – A Comfort Food Favorite
- Total Time: 35 mins
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A rich and comforting pasta dish made with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch-flavored sauce tossed with pasta for the ultimate weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with half of the ranch mix, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and remaining ranch seasoning until smooth and creamy.
- Add cooked pasta, chicken, and crumbled bacon. Toss until evenly coated in sauce.
- Simmer for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker version.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to lighten the dish.
- Pairs well with garlic bread and a fresh green salad.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 25 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Pasta – Penne or rotini works best, holding the creamy sauce in every bite.
Chicken breast – Lean and tender, cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Bacon – Crispy, smoky bacon adds texture and savory flavor.
Olive oil – Used to cook the chicken while keeping it moist and flavorful.
Garlic – Adds aromatic depth and balances the richness of the sauce.
Heavy cream – Creates the rich, velvety base of the sauce.
Cream cheese – Adds tanginess and extra creaminess.
Ranch seasoning – Infuses the dish with the signature tangy ranch flavor.
Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty finish.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing flavors.
Fresh parsley – Used as a garnish, adding freshness and a pop of color.
Directions
Begin by cooking the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy, then remove and crumble. Reserve a small amount of bacon grease in the pan.
Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté in olive oil and reserved bacon grease until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream, cream cheese, and ranch seasoning. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta, stirring until fully combined. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 4–6 servings. Preparation takes 15 minutes, while cooking requires 20 minutes. In total, the dish can be ready in 35 minutes, making it a quick yet indulgent dinner option.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can cause the sauce to separate. Freezing is not recommended, as cream-based sauces tend to change texture.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy kick – Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Vegetable boost – Stir in broccoli, spinach, or peas for added nutrition.
Different pasta – Use bowties, fettuccine, or shells depending on preference.
Cheese swap – Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy flavor.
Turkey bacon – Use as a lighter alternative to traditional bacon.
One-pot method – Cook pasta directly in the sauce with extra broth for fewer dishes.
Low-carb option – Substitute pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Herb lovers – Add fresh basil, thyme, or chives for an aromatic twist.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken?
Yes, rotisserie chicken works well and cuts down on prep time.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the pasta and sauce, then reheat gently before serving.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner; add extra cream cheese to thicken.
What sides pair best with this pasta?
A green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement it well.
Can I use homemade ranch seasoning?
Absolutely, homemade seasoning allows for better control of salt and flavor.
How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Keep the heat low and stir constantly while adding the cream and cheese.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the perfect blend of savory, creamy, and tangy flavors in one satisfying dish. With its tender chicken, crispy bacon, and luscious ranch-flavored sauce, this recipe delivers comfort food at its finest. Quick to prepare, family-friendly, and customizable to suit different tastes, it’s an easy dinner idea you’ll want to make again and again. Pair it with a fresh salad and garlic bread for a complete meal that feels both indulgent and homemade.