There's nothing quite like the combination of creamy, savory, and smoky flavors in this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta. The tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch-infused sauce cling to every bite of pasta, making it a dish that's impossible to resist.

This recipe came about on a night when I wanted something indulgent yet easy to throw together. With a few pantry staples and some leftover bacon, I created a pasta dish that has since become a go-to comfort meal in our household. Itโs quick, family-friendly, and downright delicious.
Letโs dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.
Why You'll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Get ready to meet your new favorite dinner recipe. Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is not only packed with flavor but also checks all the boxes for busy cooks.
First, this recipe is a time-saver. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or when youโre short on time but still want something hearty.
Itโs also a crowd-pleaser. Whether you're cooking for picky kids or hosting friends, the combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch is always a hit. Plus, itโs easy to customize to suit various preferences or dietary needs.
Another reason to love this dish is its affordability. It uses everyday ingredients like pasta, chicken, and bacon, so you won't have to break the bank to serve up a satisfying meal.
Lastly, this recipe is endlessly versatile. Use your favorite type of pasta, swap out the chicken for another protein, or make it vegetarian by omitting the meat โ the possibilities are endless.
Ready to start cooking? Letโs talk about the ingredients youโll need.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta lies in its simple, flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in making this dish irresistible.
Pasta is the base of this recipe. I recommend short shapes like penne, rotini, or farfalle, as theyโre perfect for catching the creamy sauce. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if you prefer.
Chicken breasts or thighs work equally well in this dish. I like to cut them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and better sauce coverage. The chicken brings a tender, juicy texture to the dish, balancing the smoky bacon.
Bacon adds that unmistakable smoky flavor. Cook it until crispy, then crumble it into the pasta for a perfect salty bite in every forkful. You can also use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
The ranch seasoning is the star of the sauce. You can use a store-bought packet or make your own blend of dried herbs and spices. Itโs what gives the dish its signature tangy, herby flavor.
The cream sauce combines heavy cream and Parmesan cheese for richness. A little chicken broth helps to thin it out and balance the flavors. If youโre looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half instead of cream.
Finally, youโll need a large skillet and a pot for boiling the pasta. A slotted spoon or tongs will also come in handy for transferring ingredients.
Now that you have everything ready, letโs get cooking!
How To Make This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Creating this indulgent dish is easier than you might think. Follow these steps for a perfect result every time.
Start by cooking the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook it until al dente according to the package instructions, then reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining. The starchy water can help loosen the sauce later.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the bacon. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until itโs crispy. Remove it with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving the bacon drippings in the pan for extra flavor.
Next, cook the chicken in the same skillet. Season the pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder, then sautรฉ them in the bacon drippings until theyโre golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside with the bacon.
In the same skillet, prepare the sauce. Start by adding the heavy cream, ranch seasoning, and a splash of chicken broth. Whisk everything together over medium heat, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
Now, return the chicken and bacon to the skillet. Stir everything together to coat the meat in the creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss to combine. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Once everything is well combined, sprinkle the pasta with Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped parsley for freshness. Serve hot and watch it disappear from the table!
This dish takes just about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy nights. The result is a rich, creamy, and satisfying pasta that feels like a treat.
Storage Options
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta stores beautifully.
Transfer the cooled pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, as it can thicken in the fridge.
This dish also freezes well. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Pro tip: Store the bacon separately if you want to keep it crispy when reheating!
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with it.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and bacon and add sautรฉed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables for a plant-based version.
- Protein Swap: Use cooked shrimp, ground turkey, or even leftover rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeรฑos to the sauce for a little heat.
- Cheese Lovers: Mix in shredded mozzarella, Gouda, or cheddar for an extra cheesy sauce.
- Lighter Option: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and turkey bacon for a healthier take on this dish.
Experimenting with these variations can help you discover new family favorites. Donโt be afraid to make it your own!
There you have it โ a delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta recipe thatโs simple, satisfying, and perfect for any night of the week. Whether you're cooking for your family or meal-prepping for yourself, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Enjoy!
PrintChicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta recipe is the perfect comfort food, combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch-infused sauce over pasta. It's a quick and delicious meal thatโs perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- 2 cups cooked chicken (diced or shredded)
- 6 slices bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 1 ยฝ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ยฝ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup milk
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- ยฝ tsp black pepper
- ยฝ tsp salt
- ยฝ tsp onion powder
- ยผ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sautรฉ for 1 minute.
- Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring until combined. Add ranch seasoning, salt, pepper, onion powder, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir in cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked chicken and crumbled bacon, stirring to combine.
- Toss in the cooked pasta and mix until evenly coated with the sauce.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg
Leave a Reply