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Creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta: a comforting, cheesy dinner.
Lady Maria

ULTIMATE Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. It combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a luscious ranch-infused cream sauce for a flavor explosion in every bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 750
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound pasta penne, rotini, or farfalle recommended
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 6-8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1 ounce ranch seasoning mix 1 packet
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Colander
  • large skillet
  • paper towels
  • measuring cups and spoons
  • mixing spoon
  • Cutting board
  • knife

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet (with the bacon grease), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  4. Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and milk. Stir in the ranch seasoning mix and cheddar cheese. Cook, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 3-5 minutes. Do not boil.
  5. Add the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

For a richer flavor, use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. To lighten the sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for a brighter flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, add the cooked pasta to the reheated sauce just before serving to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy. Toss in some steamed broccoli florets, sautéed mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.