Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce all mixed with pasta. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to be a family favorite.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 colander
- 1 skillet
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 whisk
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 set measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts chicken About 1 pound / 450g, diced.
- 6 slices cooked bacon Crumpled.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix 1 ounce / 28g.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- salt and pepper To taste.
- fresh parsley Chopped, optional, for garnish.
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the heavy cream and ranch seasoning mix. Whisk together until well combined and heated through.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Mix until everything is well coated with the creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine all ingredients evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of heavy cream.
Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or broccoli for added nutrition.
This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, though the pasta may absorb some sauce. Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating if needed.