Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy, comforting pasta dish combines everyone’s favorite flavors – tender chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that comes together in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Pure Comfort

There’s something magical about the combination of warm pasta coated in a creamy ranch sauce, topped with perfectly seasoned chicken and crispy bacon bits. Each forkful delivers that satisfying blend of textures and savory flavors that make you feel right at home.

Ingredients

Penne pasta (1 pound)
Chicken breasts (2 large)
Bacon (8 slices)
Ranch seasoning packet (1 ounce)
Heavy cream (2 cups)
Chicken broth (2 cups)
Garlic (4 cloves)
Parmesan cheese (1 cup)
Fresh parsley
Salt and pepper
Olive oil

What You Need

Large pot or Dutch oven
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups
Wooden spoon
Cheese grater
Colander

Time to Cook

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6

Steps to Make It

Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper. Dice bacon into small pieces.
In a large pot, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, cook chicken in bacon fat until golden brown.
Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth, cream, and ranch seasoning. Stir well.
Add pasta and bring to a simmer. Cook until pasta is tender.
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.
Return bacon to the pot and garnish with fresh parsley.

Make It Perfect

For the best results, don’t rush the bacon-cooking process – crispy bacon adds the perfect texture. When cooking the pasta, stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep an eye on the liquid level to achieve the perfect sauce consistency.

Mix It Up

Try different pasta shapes like rotini or bowtie pasta. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter option or add vegetables like peas or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Perfect Partners

Serve with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. A light white wine like Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with this creamy pasta dish.

Busy Day Hero

Make this dish even quicker by using pre-cooked chicken and ready-made bacon bits. You can also use minced garlic from a jar instead of fresh.

Work Ahead

Cook the bacon and chicken up to a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, then combine with the pasta and sauce when ready to serve.

Save Some For Later

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency.

Everyone’s Happy

This versatile dish is perfect for picky eaters and can be easily customized. Kids love the familiar flavors, while adults appreciate the sophisticated combination.

Good For You Too

Add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients. Use whole grain pasta for more fiber, and consider light cream to reduce calories.

Easy Clean Up

Using one pot for the entire recipe minimizes dishes. Line your bacon-cooking surface with foil for even easier cleanup.

Switch It Up

Use rotisserie chicken for convenience
Swap ranch seasoning for Italian herbs
Try different cheese combinations
Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor
Include mushrooms for an earthy touch

Simply Perfect

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta combines classic flavors in a comforting dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners but special enough for company.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
What type of pasta works best?
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
Is there a gluten-free option?
Can I freeze this dish?
How do I make it less rich?

Conclusion

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the perfect combination of convenience and comfort. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon, it’s bound to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this versatile dish delivers satisfaction in every bite.

More Delicious Pasta Recipes to Try

If you loved this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, you’ll definitely enjoy exploring other comforting pasta dishes! For a twist on a classic, try this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta, packed with bold flavors and a creamy sauce. If you’re looking for another cheesy delight, this Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is a must-try. For a one-pan wonder, check out One Pan Chicken with Creamy Buttered Noodles—quick, easy, and full of flavor. If you’re a fan of ranch flavors, then this Crockpot Ranch Chicken and Potatoes will be right up your alley. And for those who can’t get enough of creamy pasta dishes, Creamy Chicken Pot Pie Pasta Bake is the perfect comfort meal to try next!