Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe

Name: Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless chicken breasts, diced; 1/2 cup cooked bacon bits; 8 oz penne or rotini pasta; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

July 15, 2025

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Imagine a dish so creamy that it practically begs you to dive in like a kid at a candy store. That’s right! Chicken bacon ranch pasta is here to steal the show and your heart! With its rich flavors and delightful textures, this dish feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.

You’ve just had a long day, and all you want is something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Well, fear not! This recipe is as quick as it is scrumptious, making it perfect for those chaotic weeknights when cooking seems more daunting than an Olympic sport.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This chicken bacon ranch pasta combines creamy textures with savory flavors, making dinner feel special without fuss.
Quick and easy to prepare, it’s perfect for busy families or meal prepping.
The vibrant colors from vegetables elevate your plate’s visual appeal while delivering satisfaction in every bite.

My family erupted into cheers the first time I served this dish—nothing like being crowned “Chef of the Year” at home!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless Chicken Breasts: Tender and juicy; about 3-4 pieces works well for this recipe.
Bacon Bits: Use cooked bacon bits for maximum flavor without hassle; they add crunchiness.
Pasta: Any short pasta like penne or rotini will hold onto that creamy sauce beautifully.
Ranch Dressing: Opt for your favorite brand—it brings that zesty kick everyone loves!
Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens! It adds richness and creaminess that makes every bite irresistible.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds nutty depth; don’t skimp on it!
Green Onions: These provide freshness and crunch; chop them finely for best results.
Garlic Powder: A must-have; it enhances flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Olive Oil: Use it to sauté your chicken and create a lovely golden crust.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate all the other ingredients’ natural flavors.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling water in a large pot over high heat. Once bubbling vigorously, add salt and your chosen pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions.

Sauté the Chicken: While your pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced boneless chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown on all sides.

Add Bacon Bits: After cooking chicken thoroughly (about 6-8 minutes), stir in those glorious cooked bacon bits for added flavor. Let them mingle together for about two minutes.

Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour heavy cream into your skillet and then mix in ranch dressing vigorously until fully combined. Allow it to simmer gently while stirring frequently until slightly thickened.

Toss in Pasta: Drain your cooked pasta (remember to reserve some water!). Combine it with the creamy mixture in the skillet; add reserved water if needed for desired consistency.

Add Cheese & Green Onions: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese over everything and toss well until melted through. Finally, garnish with chopped green onions before serving!

Now sit back and watch as your loved ones dig into this delectable creation!

Enjoy every bite of your delicious chicken bacon ranch pasta masterpiece!

You Must Know

Chicken bacon ranch pasta is a flavor-packed dish that’s easy to customize, making it perfect for any occasion.
The delightful combination of creamy sauce, tender chicken, and crispy bacon elevates your dinner game.
Plus, it’s a hit among kids and adults alike!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect results, start by searing the chicken until golden brown. While it cooks, boil the pasta and prepare the delicious ranch sauce simultaneously for optimal flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for turkey or add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. You can also experiment with different cheese varieties to make this dish your own.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk if it looks dry.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly cooked pasta, follow package instructions but reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes for al dente texture.
Always taste your sauce before serving to ensure it’s seasoned just right.
A sprinkle of fresh herbs can elevate flavors significantly.

Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about that one dinner party where this dish stole the show, leaving everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). It’s always a crowd-pleaser!

FAQ

Can I use gluten-free pasta for chicken bacon ranch pasta?

Absolutely! Gluten-free pasta works well and maintains great flavor and texture.

What can I substitute for ranch dressing?

You could use a homemade herb dressing or a store-bought alternative if preferred.

How long does this dish take to prepare?

This delicious meal takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish!

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