This creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta is a winner on busy nights! It’s packed with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a delicious ranch sauce, making it super tasty.
I love how quickly this dish comes together—perfect for days when cooking feels like a chore. Plus, who can say no to bacon? It just makes everything better! 🥓
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Penne or rotini are great options for this dish due to their shape holding onto the creamy sauce. If you prefer, you can easily swap them for farfalle or fusilli for a fun twist!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean, but thighs can offer juicier flavor. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works beautifully. Just shred it and add it to the skillet!
Bacon: Bacon adds a crunchy texture and smokiness. Turkey bacon is a healthier option but may not get as crispy. You can even use pancetta for a delicious Italian flavor.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream creates richness, you can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free option like coconut cream. Keep in mind, this might change the flavor slightly.
Ranch Dressing Mix: If you’re out of ranch mix, blend some dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder for a homemade version. It won’t be identical but still yummy!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting your chicken just right is key here! Start by dicing it evenly so it cooks at the same rate. Season well with salt, pepper, and garlic powder for extra flavor. Here’s how to cook it:
- Heat your skillet over medium heat and add olive oil.
- Once hot, add diced chicken. Don’t overcrowd the pan—work in batches if needed.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is browned and no longer pink inside. Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C) if unsure!
Letting the chicken rest for a moment after cooking keeps it juicy and tasty. Enjoy your creamy goodness!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 2 cups pasta (penne or rotini)
For The Chicken and Bacon:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 4 strips of bacon
For The Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Chopped parsley
- Extra crumbled bacon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta takes about 30 minutes to make. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and preparing the ingredients, and then another 20 minutes sautéing the chicken and bacon and simmering everything together. Quick and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add your pasta and cook it according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy and browned. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and let it drain on paper towels to soak up the extra grease.
3. Sauté the Chicken:
In the same skillet where you cooked the bacon (don’t drain the bacon fat!), add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the diced chicken. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook the chicken until it’s browned and no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to get an even cook.
4. Make the Sauce:
Now, reduce the heat to low. Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch dressing mix to the skillet with the chicken. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly—this should take about 3-5 minutes.
5. Combine Pasta and Cheese:
Here comes the fun part! Add the cooked pasta to the skillet along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir it all together until the cheese is melted and the pasta is nicely coated in that creamy sauce.
6. Add Bacon and Serve:
Crumble the cooked bacon and mix it in with the pasta, saving a bit for topping if you want. Serve your creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta warm, garnished with chopped parsley and extra bacon if desired. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will add a nutty flavor and some extra fiber, while gluten-free pasta is a great option for those with dietary restrictions. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package to ensure it reaches al dente perfection.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch (mix 1 cup of milk with 2 tablespoons of cornstarch). Just keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich and creamy, so consider adding a bit more cheese for flavor.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk to help loosen the sauce, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring frequently.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in some spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers when you add the heavy cream and chicken broth. Just make sure to cook them thoroughly before adding the pasta and cheese for a delicious veggie boost!
