Hey there, fellow foodies! Are you ready for a dish that combines the creamiest sauce, the crunchiest bacon, and the most tender chicken, all wrapped up in a bed of perfectly cooked pasta? Look no further! Today, I’m sharing my secret recipe for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta that’s so divine, it’ll become your new go-to for quick family dinners and cozy weeknight meals. Plus, it’s one of those easy pasta recipes that comes together in just 30 minutes—yes, you read that right!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a crowd-pleaser! Creamy, smoky, and flavorful, this dish is perfect for everyone.
- Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy weeknights.
- Customizable to your taste—add veggies, swap cheeses, or make it spicier!
- One-pot wonder (almost!) that leaves minimal cleanup.
- Perfect for meal prep or a cozy night in with the family.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy, cheesy masterpiece:
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
- 6 strips bacon
- Salt/Pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (Rotini recommended)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 cups half and half
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Let’s get cooking! This recipe is all about layering flavors and textures for that perfect bite every time.
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Set aside, reserve those glorious drippings, and roughly chop the bacon once cooled. (Because everything’s better with bacon, am I right?)
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces, season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear in those bacon drippings over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Let it rest for a few minutes before cubing it up. For more tips on cooking chicken to perfection, check out my Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken Breast recipe.
Step 3: Boil the Pasta
Cook your pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. I love using rotini for this because it holds onto the sauce so beautifully!
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet (because we’re keeping those flavors!), melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Add the flour and whisk to make a roux, then gradually pour in the half and half, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Once smooth, stir in the ranch seasoning and cheddar cheese until you get that perfect, creamy sauce.
Step 5: Combine It All
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing until every piece is coated. Then, add the chicken and toss gently to combine. Top it all off with that crispy bacon you set aside earlier. Serve warm and enjoy the ooohs and aahhs!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- For an extra creamy sauce, don’t skip the roux—it’s a game-changer!
- Customize with your favorite veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or spinach.
- Swap cheddar for Parmesan or a mix for a different flavor profile.
- Prep the ingredients ahead of time for a smoother cooking process.
How to Serve
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to go all out:
- Add a side of garlic bread for dipping in that sauce.
- Throw together a simple green salad for some freshness.
- Or, serve with roasted veggies for a balanced plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
One of the best things about this recipe? It’s perfect for meal prep! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore that creamy texture. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat when you’re ready.
There you have it, folks! A delicious, easy pasta recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for quick family dinners, 30-minute meals, or just a comforting weeknight dinner idea, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta delivers. Don’t forget to check out some of my other favorite recipes like Texas Roadhouse Smothered Chicken and Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for more inspiration. Happy cooking!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the bacon in a skillet over low heat until crisp. Set aside, reserve drippings, and chop once cooled.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear in bacon drippings until cooked through, then cube.
- Cook pasta in boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Melt butter in the skillet, sauté garlic, add flour, then gradually stir in half and half. Add ranch seasoning and cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Combine pasta, sauce, chicken, and top with bacon. Serve warm.