This chicken bacon ranch pasta is a one-pot wonder packed with tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy, cheesy ranch-flavored sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting family meal, this dish is as easy to make as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season lightly with black pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add garlic and sautรฉ for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, and ranch seasoning mix. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cheese:
- Stir in cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. Cook for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Tips for the Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
- Customize your protein: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or sausage.
- Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Add veggies: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for extra nutrition.
Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx. 6 Servings)
- Calories: 620
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 960mg
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
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