The Ultimate Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe

Craving something rich, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying? This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and tender pasta are all tossed in a creamy ranch-seasoned sauce that’s bursting with savory goodness. It’s a one-pan dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want some hearty comfort food.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a guaranteed hit. With bold ranch flavor and a cheesy finish, it’s no wonder this pasta recipe is a fan favorite.

What Makes This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Special?

This isn’t just another pasta dish – it’s a symphony of flavors that combines the smoky richness of bacon, the protein-packed satisfaction of chicken, and the tangy creaminess of ranch dressing.

The result is a hearty meal that satisfies even the pickiest eaters while being simple enough for beginner cooks to master.

Recipe Information

• Serves: 4-6 people
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Main Dish

Essential Equipment List

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Colander for draining pasta
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cheese grater (if using fresh cheese)

Other Recipes –

• Creamy Chicken Alfredo Lasagna Rolls – Easy & Delicious
• Easy Chicken Florentine with Spinach & Garlic Cream Sauce
• Sweet Chili Chicken – Sticky, Spicy, and Irresistible

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite short pasta)
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 strips bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta Base

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.

Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 6-8 minutes.

Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add them to the same skillet with the bacon fat and cook for 6-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

Add olive oil to the same skillet if needed. Sauté the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Ranch Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the ranch dressing mix until well combined and smooth. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken and bacon to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss to combine.

Gradually add the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time.

Step 7: Final Touches

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it al dente since it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the hot sauce.
2. Save That Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce and creates a silky texture.
3. Room Temperature Cheese: Let your cheese come to room temperature before adding to prevent clumping.
4. Fresh Ranch is Best: While store-bought ranch works, making your own with the seasoning packet creates a more vibrant flavor.
5. Prep Ahead: You can prep all ingredients in advance and store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigerator Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months, though the texture of the cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing.

Reheating: For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Microwave heating is possible but may result in uneven temperatures.

Delicious Variations to Try

Veggie-Packed Version

Add broccoli florets, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.

Spicy Kick

Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for those who like heat.

Lighter Option

Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheese to cut calories.

Gluten-Free Alternative

Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

This chicken bacon ranch pasta recipe proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s destined to become a regular in your dinner rotation. The combination of smoky bacon, tender chicken, and creamy ranch sauce creates a restaurant-quality meal you can easily make at home.