When you’re looking for a dinner that hits all the right notes creamy, cheesy, comforting, and packed with flavor Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is your go-to dish. This irresistible combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a velvety ranch-infused sauce will have your taste buds singing. With a perfect blend of creamy textures and savory flavors, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a crowd-pleaser that’s quick and easy to make.
The Magic Behind Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This dish combines the rich, creamy goodness of ranch seasoning, the satisfying crunch of crispy bacon, and tender chicken, all enveloped in a smooth sauce of cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Add some al dente penne pasta into the mix, and you’ve got a meal that’s as comforting as it is indulgent. The best part? You can prepare it in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. Whether you’re feeding a busy family or simply craving something delicious, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta are simple yet packed with flavor. Here’s what you need to get started:
- 12 oz penne pasta – The penne pasta provides the perfect shape to hold the creamy sauce, making each bite just as satisfying as the last.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – Olive oil helps to sauté the chicken and adds a hint of flavor.
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces – Chicken breast is lean and tender, making it ideal for this dish.
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled – Bacon adds a crispy, smoky crunch to contrast the creamy pasta.
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix – This is the key to the dish’s signature flavor, infusing the sauce with a zesty, herby taste.
- 1 cup heavy cream – The heavy cream creates a rich and velvety sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
- 1 cup milk – The milk helps balance the richness of the cream, giving the sauce a smooth, pourable consistency.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Cheddar cheese provides a sharp, tangy flavor that enhances the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – Mozzarella offers a stretchy, gooey texture that makes the sauce even more indulgent.
- Salt and pepper, to taste – Simple seasonings that bring out all the other flavors in the dish.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, balancing the richness of the pasta.
Directions: How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
The first step is to cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the pasta until it’s al dente. Drain and set the pasta aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste, then cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the chicken to be golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Make the Ranch Sauce
In the same skillet, add the ranch seasoning mix, heavy cream, and milk. Stir everything together and bring the sauce to a simmer. Allow the sauce to cook for about 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly. This creamy ranch sauce is what makes this pasta dish so irresistible.
Step 4: Add the Cheeses
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Continue stirring until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth. The cheese should blend seamlessly into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy texture.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Once the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth, add the cooked penne pasta and chicken back into the skillet. Stir gently to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy ranch sauce. Add the crumbled bacon and mix everything together. The crispy bacon adds a perfect contrast to the creamy sauce, making each bite even more satisfying.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is well combined, serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta warm. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. The parsley balances out the richness of the dish, adding a fresh element that cuts through the creamy sauce.
Enjoy Your Creamy, Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta!
There you have it a comforting, creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite. This dish has everything: tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a luscious, cheesy sauce that brings it all together. Perfect for serving up with a side salad or some garlic bread, it’s guaranteed to satisfy everyone’s appetite.
Tips for the Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Customize the Protein: If you’re not a fan of chicken, feel free to swap it out with turkey or even ground beef. The bacon will still add that crispy, smoky element that makes the dish so delicious.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the ranch sauce or using a spicy ranch seasoning mix.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and bacon and add some vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
- Make it Lighter: To make this dish a little lighter, you can swap the heavy cream for a lower-fat alternative like half-and-half or even use a dairy-free milk.
Nutritional Information for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This hearty meal is a comfort food favorite, but it’s also rich in calories and fats. Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Protein: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 900mg
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This recipe is an absolute crowd-pleaser for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy: You can have this dish on the table in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.
- Comforting: It’s the kind of meal that wraps you up in creamy, cheesy goodness and leaves you feeling satisfied.
- Crowd-Pleaser: With its irresistible combination of bacon, cheese, and ranch flavor, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer to add extra veggies, use a different protein, or adjust the spices, this recipe is easy to modify to suit your tastes.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?
Yes, you can easily substitute the penne pasta for another type such as rotini, rigatoni, or fusilli. Just make sure to follow the same cooking instructions based on the pasta you choose.
2. How can I make this dish lighter?
To reduce the calorie count of this recipe, you can opt for a lighter version of the ranch seasoning mix, use low-fat milk and cream, and choose a reduced-fat cheese. Additionally, you can swap the bacon for turkey bacon for a healthier alternative.
3. Can I prepare Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time! Cook the pasta, chicken, and sauce, and then combine them just before serving. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
4. Can I make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta in a slow cooker?
Yes! You can make this recipe in a slow cooker by adding the cooked chicken and cooked pasta to the slow cooker, then mixing in the ranch seasoning, milk, cream, and cheeses. Let it cook on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally until everything is fully melted and combined.
These FAQs help answer common queries while providing additional tips and options for making this creamy, delicious meal!
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you love this creamy, savory Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, you’ll definitely enjoy these other tasty recipes:
- Bacon Cheeseburger Bombs – The Ultimate Snack You’ll Crave
- Pepperoni Pizza Sloppy Joes – A Fun Twist on a Classic Meal
- Tater Tot Breakfast Casserole with Sausage Gravy Recipe
Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta – Creamy and Delicious Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce, making for an irresistibly cheesy, comforting dish. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, it’s a go-to weeknight meal that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5-7 minutes or until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Ranch Sauce: In the same skillet, add the ranch seasoning mix, heavy cream, and milk. Stir and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Add the Cheeses: Stir in the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine the Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Stir until everything is well coated. Add the crumbled bacon and mix until evenly distributed.
- Serve: Serve the pasta warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can use low-fat milk and cheese, or opt for turkey bacon instead of regular bacon.
- This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Feel free to swap the penne pasta for any other type of pasta you prefer, such as rotini or rigatoni.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, creamy ranch pasta, cheesy chicken pasta, easy chicken dinner, bacon ranch pasta, pasta with ranch seasoning, cheesy pasta recipes