Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

This creamy, cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is comfort food at its best! Tender chicken, crispy bacon, and pasta come together in a rich ranch-flavored sauce for an irresistible dinner.

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Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
• 1 lb chicken breast, diced
• 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons ranch seasoning mix
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole milk or 2%)
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

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Step 2: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet, crumble, and set aside.
2. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet for added flavor.

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Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil (or bacon grease) in the same skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced chicken, season with ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until fully cooked, about 6–7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

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Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In the skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly, and cook for 1–2 minutes.
3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

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Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and crumbled bacon to the sauce. Toss until everything is evenly coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
2. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.

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Notes

• Ranch Flavor: For more ranch flavor, add extra seasoning mix or a drizzle of prepared ranch dressing.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.
• Cheese Options: Substitute mozzarella, Colby Jack, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

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Nutrition (Per Serving):

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 34g
• Fat: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Sodium: 860m