Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe That Wows Every Time

Crafting a mouthwatering chicken bacon ranch pasta promises pure comfort on a plate.

Crispy bacon bits and tender chicken chunks create an irresistible combination.

Creamy ranch sauce brings zesty excitement to every single bite.

Hearty noodles absorb rich flavors that dance across your palate.

Home cooks adore this simple yet impressive meal that comes together quickly.

Weekend dinners or weeknight suppers feel instantly special with this crowd-pleasing recipe.

You cannot wait to savor each delectable forkful of this incredible dish.

Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

• Chicken Breasts: A lean protein that provides a hearty base for the pasta dish.
• Bacon: Adds a crispy, smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the recipe.

• Pasta: The foundational component that carries the creamy sauce and other ingredients.

• Cheddar Cheese: Provides a rich, sharp flavor and creamy texture to the sauce.
• Half and Half: Creates a smooth and luxurious base for the creamy sauce.
• Ranch Dressing Seasoning Mix: Adds a tangy and herbaceous flavor profile to the dish.

• Garlic: Brings a pungent and aromatic flavor to the sauce.
• Salt, Pepper, Onion Powder, Italian Seasoning: Blend of spices that season the chicken and add depth to the overall taste.

• Flour: Helps to thicken the sauce and create a smooth, creamy consistency.

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Step 1: Sizzle The Bacon

Grab a large skillet and heat it over medium temperature. Toss bacon pieces into the pan and cook until they transform into crispy, golden delights. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, keeping those delicious bacon drippings in the skillet.

Step 2: Season And Sear The Chicken

Sprinkle chicken breasts with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Use the same skillet with bacon grease to cook the chicken. Sear each side until golden brown and completely cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes per side. After cooking, let the chicken rest briefly, then slice into bite-sized chunks.

Step 3: Boil The Pasta

Fill a large pot with water and add a generous pinch of salt. Bring water to a rolling boil. Drop pasta into the water and cook according to package directions until perfectly al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 4: Create The Creamy Sauce

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Ranch dressing seasoning mix

Continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and luxuriously creamy.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything to ensure each piece gets coated in the rich, creamy sauce. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for a few minutes to warm through completely.

Step 6: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle the crispy bacon pieces over the top of the pasta. Serve immediately while piping hot and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

Pro Tips for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

• Drain Bacon Perfectly: Place cooked bacon on paper towels to absorb excess grease, ensuring crispy texture without oiliness.
• Prevent Dry Chicken: Let chicken rest after cooking to retain moisture, then slice against the grain for tender, juicy bites.
• Season Strategically: Layer flavors by seasoning chicken with multiple spices before cooking, creating depth and richness in every bite.
• Achieve Silky Sauce: Whisk half and half slowly into the flour mixture to prevent lumps, resulting in a smooth, creamy ranch sauce.
• Boost Flavor Intensity: Sprinkle extra ranch seasoning or fresh herbs on top just before serving to enhance the overall taste profile.

Variation Ideas for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

• Vegetarian Ranch Pasta: Replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or firm tofu, using vegetable broth instead of bacon grease for sautéing.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap regular pasta with gluten-free penne or rotini, use gluten-free flour for sauce thickening, and verify ranch seasoning mix is gluten-free.
• Lighter Cream Sauce Option: Substitute half and half with Greek yogurt and low-fat milk, use turkey bacon for reduced fat content, and incorporate spinach for added nutrition.
• Mediterranean-Inspired Variation: Add sun-dried tomatoes, swap ranch seasoning with Italian herbs, use feta cheese instead of cheddar, and sprinkle with fresh basil before serving.

Pairing Suggestions for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

• Boost Flavor Companions: Pair with crisp chardonnay to complement the creamy ranch sauce and cut through the richness.
• Wine-Cheese Harmony: Select a medium-bodied white wine like sauvignon blanc that balances the chicken's savory profile and pasta's hearty texture.
• Refreshing Side Kick: Add a light, tangy green salad with lemon vinaigrette to contrast the pasta's creamy and heavy components.
• Texture Contrast Partner: Serve alongside garlic roasted asparagus spears to introduce a fresh, crunchy element that elevates the overall meal experience.

Storage Advice for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Cover the pasta completely to prevent drying out and absorbing other food odors.
• Pack the cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label the container with the date.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Sprinkle 1-2 tablespoons of water or extra ranch dressing to prevent drying. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warm.

FAQs About Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

• What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any short pasta like penne, rotini, or bowtie pasta works perfectly. These shapes hold the creamy sauce well and are easy to eat.

• Can I use pre-cooked chicken instead of cooking it fresh?

Yes, rotisserie chicken or leftover grilled chicken can be used. Simply cut into bite-sized pieces and add to the sauce when instructed.

• Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

Use Greek yogurt instead of half and half, choose whole wheat pasta, and use turkey bacon for a lighter version. You can also add more vegetables like spinach or broccoli.

Reasons to Love Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

• Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients or add personal twists to make this recipe uniquely yours, transforming a classic dish into a family favorite.
• Minimal Cleanup Magic: Using the same skillet for multiple steps reduces washing up, saving precious time and energy in the kitchen.
• One-Pot Wonder: Combines protein, pasta, and creamy sauce in a single pan, making this meal super convenient for busy cooks who want delicious results without complicated techniques.
• Crowd-Pleasing Flavor Explosion: Combines beloved ingredients like bacon, ranch, and cheese that appeal to both kids and adults, guaranteeing smiles around the dinner table.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 33 reviews

• Total Time: 35-40 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta delivers comfort in every comforting bite. Savory bacon, tender chicken, and zesty ranch sauce combine for a quick weeknight dinner that satisfies hungry families with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

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Main Proteins:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 6 strips bacon

Pasta and Cheese:

• 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, rigatoni, bow tie)
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded

Seasonings and Other Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
• 2 cups half and half (can substitute whole milk)
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the bacon by cutting it into small squares. Set a large skillet over medium heat and crisp the bacon pieces until golden and crunchy. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving the grease in the skillet.
2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Cook the chicken in the bacon grease over medium heat for 5-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from skillet, rest for 2-3 minutes, then slice into bite-sized chunks.
3. Simultaneously, boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until aromatic. Sprinkle flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking continuously to prevent burning.
5. Gradually pour half and half into the skillet, stirring consistently to create a smooth base. Incorporate shredded cheddar cheese and ranch seasoning mix, stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and uniform.
6. Fold the cooked chicken and pasta into the sauce, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors and warm through.
7. Finish the dish by sprinkling crumbled bacon over the top. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors.

Notes

• Bacon Swap: Opt for turkey bacon or plant-based bacon alternatives to reduce saturated fat and make the dish more heart-healthy.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Replace regular pasta with gluten-free pasta and use a gluten-free flour substitute when making the sauce to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Spice It Up: Enhance flavor complexity by adding red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika during the chicken seasoning stage for an extra kick.
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate roasted vegetables like broccoli or spinach to increase nutritional value and add vibrant color to the dish.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 594 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 640 mg
• Fat: 33 g
• Saturated Fat: 17 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14 g
• Trans Fat: 0.5 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 125 mg