This creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta is a cozy meal you’ll love! With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch sauce, it’s a tasty hug in a bowl.
Making this dish is quick and easy, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen forever! It’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you want something delicious without the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Penne and rotini are great choices because their shapes hold the sauce well. If you’re looking for a healthier option, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta can also work just as well.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless breasts are easy and quick to cook. You could substitute with thighs for a juicier option or even use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful crunch and flavor. If you prefer a healthier alternative, turkey bacon or smoked paprika can give a similar taste without the fat.
Heavy Cream: While heavy cream creates that lush sauce, you can switch it out with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream for a lighter or lactose-free version.
Cheese: Cheddar is a popular choice, but feel free to mix it up! Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a bit of cream cheese can add a unique flavor to the sauce.
How Do You Make The Sauce Perfectly Creamy?
Getting that creamy sauce just right is essential. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start by sautéing garlic in the bacon fat for a flavorful base. Just be careful not to burn it!
- When you add the cream and chicken broth, let it simmer gently. This helps to thicken it up nicely while blending the flavors.
- Stir in the cheese gradually, allowing it to melt fully into the sauce. If it feels too thick, a splash of pasta water can help loosen it up.
Following these tips will ensure your sauce is velvety and rich, coating the pasta beautifully!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Chicken and Bacon:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 6 slices bacon
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prepping ingredients and cooking, plus time to simmer the sauce. Perfect for a quick and tasty dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, place the bacon over medium heat. Cook until crispy, which should take about 6-8 minutes. When finished, take the bacon out, place it on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb the extra grease, and crumble it into small pieces once it’s cool.
3. Sauté the Chicken:
In the same skillet with some leftover bacon fat (you can add olive oil if needed), heat it over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
4. Prepare the Garlic and Sauce:
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, but be sure not to burn it! Now, reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Add the ranch seasoning mix and stir everything together. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it slightly thickens.
5. Add the Cheeses:
Next, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
6. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Add the cooked chicken and crispy bacon back to the skillet. Toss in the cooked pasta and mix everything until the pasta is well-coated with the creamy ranch sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Allow everything to cook together for another 2 minutes, then serve hot. If you like, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and a little extra flavor. Enjoy your creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne and rotini are great choices for this recipe, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as farfalle, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep most of this recipe ahead! You can cook the pasta and make the sauce in advance, then combine everything when you’re ready to serve. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or a bit of cream to loosen the sauce as needed.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even evaporated milk. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut cream or a plant-based cream substitute, keeping in mind it may alter the flavor a bit.
