Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that brings together tender pieces of chicken, smoky bacon, and a rich, creamy ranch-flavored sauce. This easy pasta dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but quick to prepare. With its blend of flavors, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re entertaining guests or serving up a cozy family dinner, this dish is bound to become a favorite. Let’s dive into this deliciously creamy, cheesy, and indulgent pasta recipe!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients
2. Instructions
3. Cook Notes & Tips
4. Recipe Variations
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini works well)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (1 oz)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet.
3. Cook the Chicken
   • Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the olive oil and cook the chicken over medium-high heat until fully cooked and browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the Creamy Sauce
   • In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
   • Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, whole milk, and ranch seasoning mix. Stir well to combine.
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
5. Combine Everything
   • Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir everything together until well coated with the creamy sauce.
   • Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
6. Serve
   • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve the pasta immediately while warm and creamy.

Cook Notes & Tips

• Pasta Choice: Penne, rotini, or farfalle are all great choices for this recipe as they hold onto the sauce well.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to use mozzarella cheese instead of cheddar for a milder flavor, or even a mix of both.
• Leftover Bacon Grease: If there’s too much bacon grease left in the skillet, remove some before cooking the chicken to avoid making the dish too greasy.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Version: Add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Vegetable Additions: Stir in some cooked broccoli or peas for added color and nutrition.
• Low-Carb Option: Use spiralized zucchini or cauliflower florets instead of pasta for a low-carb version of this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this pasta ahead of time? A: Yes! You can make the pasta ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken? A: Absolutely. You can use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken. Simply add it to the sauce in Step 5 and heat through.

Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warm.

This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a comforting and indulgent meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, it’s a dish that will bring everyone to the table. The combination of ranch seasoning and creamy pasta is irresistible, making this a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy a hearty, delicious dinner that’s sure to please the whole family!