This creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta is a comforting dish you’ll want on repeat! It’s packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch flavor that brings everything together.
Honestly, who can resist bacon? I mean, it just makes everything better! I love tossing this pasta together for a quick dinner—the whole family devours it in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I love using penne or rotini because their shapes hold the creamy sauce well. If you’re short on pasta, any type like spaghetti or fettuccine will work too!
Chicken: For this recipe, I prefer chicken breasts for their lean texture. Thighs are a great substitute if you want something juicier. Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save time too!
Bacon: The smoky flavor from bacon is key. You can swap it with turkey bacon for a leaner option, or use diced ham if you want a different twist!
Ranch Dressing: Homemade ranch adds a nice touch. If you don’t have ranch dressing, a mix of mayo, buttermilk, garlic powder, and herbs can be a good alternative.
How Do I Make the Cream Sauce Creamy and Smooth?
The cream sauce is what makes this pasta so rich and tasty, but it’s important to get it just right.
- Start with a medium heat to avoid scorching the garlic. Sauté it just until fragrant—too long, and it can turn bitter.
- When adding the cream and broth, mix well and let it simmer gently. This helps thicken the sauce without boiling it harshly.
- Gradually add the cheese while stirring. This way, it melts into the sauce rather than clumping up.
Keep stirring gently to get a smooth, velvety texture. Trust me, your pasta will thank you!
Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta Dish:
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 slices bacon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta will take about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes cooking the ingredients and about 15 minutes for everything to come together. It’s a quick and savory meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water and cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, remove the bacon from the skillet, crumble or chop it into bite-sized pieces, and set it aside. Make sure to reserve about 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon fat left in the skillet for flavor.
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Season the diced chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In the same skillet with the reserved bacon fat (and adding olive oil if more is needed), cook the chicken over medium heat. Sauté until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet, and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Make the Cream Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch dressing; give it a good stir to combine the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing all those delicious flavors to meld together.
6. Add the Cheeses:
Stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, mixing until they are melted and the sauce is smooth. This is where the creamy magic happens!
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is well coated in that wonderful creamy sauce.
8. Final Steps:
Cook the mixture for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through. This helps the pasta absorb that rich flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish with family or friends!
Bon appétit!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and rotini work great, feel free to use whatever pasta you have on hand. Spaghetti or fettuccine are excellent alternatives and will still hold the creamy sauce well!
How Can I Make This Recipe Healthier?
To make it lighter, consider using whole grain or zucchini noodles instead of regular pasta. You can also swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt, and turkey bacon can replace regular bacon for fewer calories. Adjust seasonings to maintain flavor!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can cook the chicken, bacon, and make the creamy sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat the sauce on low heat and toss in freshly cooked pasta!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth as needed to bring back the creamy texture.
