Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food You’ll Crave
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness, Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is your answer! This recipe brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, creamy ranch-flavored sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta—all in one irresistible dish. It’s quick, hearty, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this pasta delivers big flavors with minimal effort. Let’s dive into how to make it!
🧄 Ingredients You’ll Need
For 4 servings:
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8 oz (about 2 cups) pasta – penne, rotini, or fusilli work best
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2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
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2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into bite-sized pieces
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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6 slices of bacon – cooked until crispy and crumbled
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup chicken broth
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½ cup ranch dressing
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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½ teaspoon onion powder
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Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
🍳 How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Add the Bacon and Garlic
In the same skillet, add your cooked, crumbled bacon. Sauté for 1–2 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Step 4: Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch dressing. Stir well to combine.
Add garlic powder and onion powder for extra flavor.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until slightly thickened (about 3–4 minutes).
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Stir well to coat evenly in the creamy ranch sauce.
Sprinkle in the shredded cheese and let it melt into the sauce, creating that irresistible creamy texture.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions. Serve warm and enjoy every bite of this creamy, cheesy perfection!
🧀 Tips for the Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
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Use freshly cooked bacon: It adds a smoky crunch that balances the creaminess.
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Adjust the ranch flavor: For a stronger ranch taste, add an extra tablespoon of dressing or a pinch of ranch seasoning mix.
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Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
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Add veggies: Try tossing in broccoli, spinach, or peas for added color and nutrition.
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Use rotisserie chicken: A great time-saving option for busy weeknights!
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta pairs beautifully with:
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A side of garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls
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A crisp Caesar salad or garden salad
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A refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade
🧊 Storing and Reheating
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Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.
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Freeze: You can freeze this pasta for up to 1 month—just thaw overnight before reheating.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Quick and easy – ready in under 30 minutes
✔️ Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
✔️ Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor
✔️ Great for meal prep or leftovers
🥓 Final Thoughts
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is everything you love about comfort food—rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, smoky bacon, and tangy ranch makes it a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this recipe is sure to impress!
So grab your skillet and make this restaurant-worthy meal right at home—it’s comfort in a bowl!
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