Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Introduction
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy ranch-flavored sauce, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish is loaded with flavor, simple to prepare, and guaranteed to please everyone at the dinner table. Whether for a weeknight meal or a potluck favorite, it’s creamy, cheesy, and satisfying in every bite.
Ingredients
- 8 oz (about 225g) pasta (penne, rotini, or fusilli work best)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pan.
- Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, add the cubed chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same pan, melt the butter and sauté garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Pour in heavy cream and milk. Stir in ranch seasoning mix and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the Cheese: Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine Everything: Add cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated and heated through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheese if desired. Serve hot!
Description
This creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish that combines the best of comfort food flavors. The ranch seasoning adds a tangy kick that complements the smoky bacon and juicy chicken perfectly. Each bite delivers a creamy, cheesy, and savory experience that makes it hard to resist seconds.
Tips
- Use rotisserie chicken for faster prep.
- Add vegetables like broccoli, spinach, or peas for color and nutrition.
- Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
- Substitute Greek yogurt for part of the cream to lighten it up.
- Try mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different cheesy flavor.
Correction
- If your sauce turns out too thick, add a little more milk or pasta water to thin it.
- If it’s too thin, stir in extra cheese or let it simmer a few more minutes.
- Taste before serving and adjust seasoning—ranch seasoning is salty, so you may not need extra salt.
Serve this comforting Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal. Dig in and enjoy the creamy, smoky, and tangy perfection in every bite!
