Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate weeknight dinner when you want something indulgent, flavorful, and downright satisfying. This dish brings together juicy chicken, crispy bacon, al dente pasta, and a rich, ranch-seasoned cream sauce that ties it all together beautifully. It’s hearty, cheesy, and loaded with comfort in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a crowd-pleaser for a potluck, this pasta delivers big flavors with minimal effort. It’s a one-pot favorite that’s perfect for busy days and cozy nights alike.
What Makes This Pasta Special?
This dish is a flavor bomb thanks to the unbeatable combo of ranch, bacon, and chicken. The creamy sauce clings to every strand of pasta, while crispy bacon adds crunch and smoky depth. Ranch seasoning gives it a tangy, herby kick that’s impossible to resist. It’s comfort food with a little edge—and the leftovers are just as good the next day.
Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini work best)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 6 strips bacon, chopped
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (optional)
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then 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 drain on paper towels. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
3. Cook the Chicken
Add olive oil to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
4. Make the Ranch Cream Sauce
Reduce heat to low. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir in the ranch seasoning mix. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then add in cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen.
5. Combine and Serve
Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Cook for another minute or two to let flavors blend.
6. Garnish and Enjoy
Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley for a fresh finish, if desired.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for some heat.
- Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda for extra cheesy goodness.
- Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot
- Skillet or sauté pan
- Slotted spoon
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)
- Calories: ~580
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fat: 36g
- Protein: 32g
- Sugar: 3g
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a bit of liquid to keep the sauce creamy.
My Cooking Experience
This dish has become one of my weeknight favorites—rich, quick, and always a hit with everyone at the table. The ranch seasoning adds just the right amount of flavor, and the bacon takes it over the top. I love how easy it is to tweak based on what’s in the fridge, and it always turns out comforting and delicious.
Conclusion
Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a mouthwatering mashup of bold flavors and cozy textures. It’s the kind of dinner that tastes like it took all day, but comes together in a flash. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you just need a little creamy indulgence, this pasta is sure to become a new staple in your recipe lineup.
creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
- Add olive oil to the skillet with the reserved bacon grease. Season the diced chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Reduce heat to low. Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and stir in the ranch seasoning mix. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then add in cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen.
- Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Cook for another minute or two to let flavors blend.
- Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley for a fresh finish, if desired.
Notes
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.
