Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta – The Ultimate Comfort Food! 🍝
Indulge in the creamy, cheesy, and savory goodness of this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta! It’s a crowd-pleasing dish packed with tender chicken, smoky bacon, rich ranch flavor, and perfectly cooked pasta coated in a velvety sauce. This recipe is not only satisfying but also incredibly easy to make — perfect for weeknight dinners or when you crave something indulgent yet simple.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work best)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk (whole milk preferred for creaminess)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (or 3 tablespoons homemade ranch seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for the chicken)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, set aside, and toss lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the bacon and chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and place on paper towels to drain. In the same pan, add diced chicken seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook until golden and fully done. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the creamy ranch sauce
In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for about 1 minute to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream while whisking to avoid lumps. Continue whisking until the sauce starts to thicken.
4. Add flavor and cheese
Stir in ranch seasoning, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, then mix in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth, creamy, and fully melted.
5. Combine everything together
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and crumbled bacon into the sauce. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Simmer for 2–3 minutes so the pasta absorbs all the flavors.
6. Optional baking step (for extra crispiness)
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle some extra cheddar on top, and bake for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Garnish and serve
Top with freshly chopped parsley and a bit more bacon for a restaurant-quality look. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy perfection!
Tips for Best Results:
- Use freshly shredded cheese — it melts smoother than pre-shredded kinds.
- Add a touch of red pepper flakes if you like a spicy twist.
- For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of cream cheese to the sauce.
- You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Serving Suggestions:
Pair this comforting pasta with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. It also reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers or meal prep!