Description
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that combines creamy ranch dressing, savory bacon, tender chicken, and pasta for a meal that’s rich in flavor and texture. The creamy sauce clings to every piece of pasta, while the crispy bacon and juicy chicken add the perfect savory balance. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. It’s an easy-to-make recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
Scale
Here’s what you’ll need for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta:
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions
Cook the Pasta:
- Boil Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water, and set aside.
Cook the Bacon:
- Crisp the Bacon: While the pasta is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
Cook the Chicken:
- Sauté the Chicken: In the same skillet, add olive oil and heat over medium-high heat. Season the diced chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, add the ranch dressing and heavy cream. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits left from the chicken and bacon. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
- Add the Cheese: Add the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce thickens.
Combine the Dish:
- Mix Everything Together: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the sauce. Stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is fully coated with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and extra cheese, if desired. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 600-650 kcal
- Fat: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 40g