This creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta is a warm and inviting dish that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a smooth ranch sauce. It’s super easy to make and packed with flavor!
You can never go wrong with bacon, right? I love how this dish is ready in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Just cook, mix, and serve. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend penne or rotini for this dish because they hold the creamy sauce nicely. But feel free to swap with any pasta you have on hand, like spaghetti or fusilli.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great here, but you can also use thighs for a richer flavor. If you’re in a hurry, shredded rotisserie chicken works perfectly!
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a lovely crunch. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon or even a vegetarian alternative like tempeh bacon would be good substitutes.
Ranch Seasoning: This is key for flavor. If you don’t have a packet, make your own using a mix of dried herbs like dill, parsley, and onion powder, plus a bit of salt and pepper.
Cheese: Cheddar gives a rich taste, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack or even Pepper Jack can add a nice twist. Vegan cheese works well too if you’re dairy-free!
How Can I Achieve the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
Creating a creamy sauce is about the right combination of heat and timing. Start by sautéing your garlic gently to avoid burning; this keeps the flavor fresh.
- Use medium-low heat when adding the broth and cream to ensure the sauce doesn’t boil too rapidly. This helps it become thick and creamy.
- Whisk in the ranch seasoning thoroughly to avoid clumps. Gradually adding cheese can help it melt smoothly into the sauce.
- Don’t forget to save some pasta water! If your sauce gets too thick, a splash of reserved water can help loosen it up.
How to Make Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
For the Chicken:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Bacon:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 ounce) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and about 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook until crispy, stirring often, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
3. Sauté the Chicken:
In the same skillet (with the leftover bacon grease), add a bit of olive oil if needed. Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then cook in the skillet until browned and fully cooked, around 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Turn the heat down to medium-low, and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant. Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, whisking in the ranch seasoning mix until well combined. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Cheese Time!
Stir in both the shredded cheddar cheese (if using) and the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This will create a rich and creamy sauce.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and crispy bacon back into the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in that delicious creamy sauce.
7. Garnish and Serve:
To finish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, and enjoy your creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta dish!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and rotini work great, any pasta shape you have on hand will do. Spaghetti, fusilli, or even whole wheat pasta can be used as a tasty alternative.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare the pasta and sauce ahead and keep them separate in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the sauce on the stove, then combine it with the pasta and any additional cooked chicken.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce might be less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute if available.
