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bacon ranch chicken pasta
Isla Marie

Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta

Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta is a rich and creamy comfort-food dinner made with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and pasta tossed in a bold ranch-flavored cheese sauce. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights, filling enough for family dinners, and perfect for anyone who loves creamy, savory pasta dishes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dinner, Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz pasta penne, rotini, or bowtie
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast diced
  • 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large pot (for boiling pasta)
  • Large skillet or pan
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups (optional)

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove, crumble, and set aside. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
  3. Add olive oil or butter to the skillet. Cook the diced chicken until fully cooked and lightly golden. Season with salt and black pepper.
  4. Reduce heat to low. Add minced garlic and sauté for 20–30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and add the cream cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  6. Add the ranch seasoning mix and stir well to combine.
  7. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and crumbled bacon to the sauce. Toss gently until evenly coated.
  8. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce thickens.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.

Video

Notes

  • Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-shredded cheese
  • Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to restore creaminess
  • Do not overcook the pasta, or the texture will become soft