Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe is rich, cheesy, and full of flavor. Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce make it perfect for easy weeknight dinners.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Colander
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- Pasta – 12 ounces, penne or rotini
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Chicken breast – 1 pound, diced
- Salt – 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
- Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon
- Bacon – 6 slices, cooked and crumbled
- Heavy cream – 1 cup
- Chicken broth – ½ cup
- Ranch seasoning mix – 1 packet (1 oz)
- Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded
- Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
- Parsley – optional, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Cook Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
Cook Bacon
- Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crisp. Remove and place on paper towels. Reserve some bacon fat for flavor.
Cook Chicken
- Heat butter and olive oil in the skillet. Add diced chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until chicken is golden and cooked through.
Make Sauce
- Reduce heat to low. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in ranch seasoning. Let simmer 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add Cheese and Bacon
- Stir shredded cheddar and Parmesan into the sauce. Add crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss gently to coat pasta with creamy chicken and bacon sauce. Use reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
Serve
- Serve immediately. Garnish with remaining bacon and chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful dinner with family or friends.
Notes
- Use high-quality chicken and bacon for best flavor
- Do not overcook pasta; keep al dente
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency
- Add parsley for a fresh garnish
- Leftovers can be stored in fridge for up to 3 days