Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

 

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta: The Ultimate Comfort Food Combo

There are some flavor combinations that just work. Ranch, bacon, and chicken? That's the holy trinity of comfort food—and when you wrap it all together in a creamy, cheesy pasta dish, magic happens.

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table (and has them going back for seconds). It’s rich, creamy, full of bold flavor, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you're feeding a hungry family or prepping a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish checks all the boxes: comforting, satisfying, and totally crowd-pleasing.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in 30 minutes with simple, everyday ingredients.

• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.

• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters love this creamy, cheesy combo.

• Customizable: Add veggies, swap in gluten-free pasta, or spice it up!

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Ingredients

• 12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite)

• 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)

• 1 cup milk

• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).

Pour in the heavy cream and milk, then stir in the ranch seasoning. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.

3. Add Cheese

Reduce heat to low, then stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and the sauce is smooth.

4. Add Chicken and Bacon

Add in the cooked chicken and most of the crumbled bacon (reserve a little for topping). Let everything simmer for a few minutes so the flavors blend.

5. Combine and Serve

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Top with remaining bacon and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve hot!

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Make It Your Own

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.

• Add Veggies: Stir in broccoli, spinach, or peas for a complete one-pot meal.

• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half and reduced-fat cheese.

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The Bottom Line

Creamy, cheesy, savory, and just a little indulgent—Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is everything a comfort food dinner should be. It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel like you’re treating yourself, even on a Tuesday night. And the best part? It’s just as good reheated the next day.

So next time you're wondering what to make with leftover chicken or need a guaranteed hit for dinner, this recipe has your back.