Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes hit the mark quite like Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta. This creamy, savory delight combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning, all tossed with pasta for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy weeknight, searching for something that would please the whole family without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me when I say that once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular dinner rotation!

Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe

Why is Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta such a hit? For one, it’s incredibly quick to make, perfect for those hectic weeknights when you still want to serve up something scrumptious. It’s also budget-friendly, relying on staple ingredients you may already have at home. Kids will love its cheesy goodness, making it a reliable go-to for family meals. Plus, the flavor profile—sweet, salty, and creamy—makes it an instant crowd-pleaser.

“This dish is an all-time favorite in our house! Quick to make and even quicker to disappear from the table!” – Happy Home Cook

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a breeze! You’ll cook some pasta, mix up a creamy sauce, and then combine everything for a delicious dinner that requires minimal effort. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it’ll come together, making it a perfect choice for those nights when time is tight.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need on hand:

• 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini works best)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cream or milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

While penne or rotini are recommended for this dish, feel free to use other pasta types you have in your pantry. You can swap the ranch dressing with a homemade version if you prefer a more personalized flavor.

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch seasoning, ranch dressing, and cream or milk over medium heat. Stir until everything is mixed well.
3. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix until fully coated in the creamy sauce.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and continue cooking until the cheese melts and everything is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If you want a baked version, transfer everything to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Best Way to Serve

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is versatile and can be served as a standalone dish or complemented with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. Freshly baked garlic bread also pairs beautifully with this creamy pasta, making for a delightful dining experience. For a touch of freshness, consider serving with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or additional green onions.

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which might be rare!), storing Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is simple. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready for seconds, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a dash of milk if it seems a bit dry. For longer storage, consider freezing the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to a month. Just remember to let it cool completely before freezing.

Expert Advice

To elevate this dish even further, consider using rotisserie chicken for a time-saving hack that adds tremendous flavor without any extra cooking. If you’re looking to lighten the dish, using Greek yogurt instead of cream can cut the calories while keeping that creamy texture. Also, don’t hesitate to adjust the ranch seasoning to suit your family’s taste; you can add more for extra zest!

Creative Twists

There are plenty of ways to put your unique spin on Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta. For a little heat, add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the sauce. Veggie lovers can toss in sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor. For a cheesy topping, add crumbled feta or mozzarella and bake until golden brown.

Common Questions

How long does it take to prepare?

The total prep and cooking time is typically around 30 minutes, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While penne and rotini are recommended, feel free to use any pasta you have on hand, such as fusilli or farfalle.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular pasta with a gluten-free alternative, and ensure your ranch dressing and seasoning are gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the pasta and sauce separately in advance. Combine them just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor.

With its creamy, rich flavors and simplicity, Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the delightful flavors and happy cooking!

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

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• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

A creamy and savory Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning, perfect for weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup cream or milk
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

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Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, ranch seasoning, ranch dressing, and cream or milk over medium heat. Stir until everything is mixed well.
3. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and mix until fully coated in the creamy sauce.
4. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and continue cooking until the cheese melts and everything is heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If you want a baked version, transfer everything to a baking dish, top with more cheese, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

For a time-saving hack, use rotisserie chicken. To lighten the dish, consider using Greek yogurt instead of cream.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking or Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Keywords: pasta, chicken, comfort food, family meals, easy recipe