What is Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta? What is it like if a baked potato and chicken alfredo had babies? What is the most comforting thing you have ever put in your mouth? I know, bold statement, but this one? Is it creamy, smoky, and tangy? Is it easier to throw together than mac and cheese? My kids beg for it at least once a week, and honestly, I’m happy to oblige. I like to add bacon sometimes just because it’s bacon. What are some of the best quick dinner recipes that everyone should try? If you are looking for something easy, check out our website.What is a one pot pasta recipe?
What is Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta?
Think of it as your ultimate comfort food mashup. What is essentially cooked pasta (I prefer rotini or penne because they grab all that delicious sauce), but it’s also a pasta dish. What is the perfect combination of tender pieces of chicken, crispy bacon bits, and ranch-infused sauce? The ranch brings that signature zest, cutting through the richness of the cream and bacon. It’s not your typical Italian Pasta dish, that’ is for sure. What is more like a celebration of American comfort food flavors all tossed together in one glorious bowl? What is a family-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknights or even weekend get togethers? Is it the kind of dish where everyone goes back for seconds, and there are rarely any leftovers? What is a bowl of happiness?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Where do I start? What I love about this Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe is how ridiculously easy it is to make. On those nights when you’re staring blankly into the fridge, wondering what to make, this is the thing to do. What is a lifesaver What is it like to make a movie in under 30 minutes?
- The Flavor:Let’s talk about taste. The creamy ranch is perfectly balanced by the salty bacon and savory chicken. What is the flavor explosion in every bite? My husband likes pasta, and I make it every day.
- The Simplicity:What are some of the easiest recipes to make? How do I make a delicious meal?
- The Cost:The ingredients are pretty standard and affordable. Chicken, pasta, bacon, ranch… nothing too exotic. You probably have most of it in your pantry already! I usually stock up on bacon when it’s on sale, and I always have a bottle of ranch dressing on hand.
- The Versatility:Is there any way to customize this website? Add some veggies (broccoli or spinach are great additions), use different types of pasta, or even just a few. Can you substitute chicken for shrimp? Is it super adaptable?
If you like easy, flavorful pasta dishes like this one, you might also enjoy my other pasta recipes.What is creamy tomato pasta?What is your favorite Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta recipe?
How do I make Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta?
Quick Overview
What’s the best way to cook pasta, chicken and bacon? How do you serve ranch sauce? What is simple? How do you cook pasta al dente? How do I get crispy bacon? What is a recipe where you can nail it on the first try?
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
* 1 pound pasta (rotini or penne are my favorites) * Water for boiling * Salt (for the pasta water)
For the Chicken and Bacon:
* 1 pound boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces * 6 slices bacon, chopped * 1 tablespoon olive oil * 1 teaspoon garlic powder * 1/2 teaspoon paprika * Salt and pepper to taste.
What is the recipe for Ranch Sauce?
* 1 cup heavy cream * 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese * 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil * 2 cups Sour Cream. Parsley (optional
What are the steps to
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. What are some good ways to drain pasta and set aside. Don’t overcook it!
Step 2: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the heat and set aside. With a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and set aside on an ungreased plate to drain excess fat. I always save bacon grease – it’s great for cooking eggs!
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet (with a little bacon grease remaining – yum! ), add the olive oil. Add the chicken pieces and season with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). I like to use a meat thermometer to be sure.
Step 4: Make the Ranch Sauce
Add the heavy cream, ranch dressing, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes. Remove from heat. If the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth, don’t let it boil!
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and crispy bacon to the skillet with the ranch sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. I like to sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top, but why not?
What should I serve it with?
What is a good Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta recipe? Is it a complete meal?
For a light lunch:Serve with a side salad. What’s a good salad to serve with vinaigrette?
For Dinner:Pair it with roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli. What are some of the best green veggies to eat?
For a Crowd:If you’re serving a larger group, you could add some Garlic Bread or cheesy breadsticks. Isn’t it a hit?
To Drink:I usually serve this with a crisp white wine or light beer. Is it good with iced tea?
My family tradition is to always have a big bowl of salad on the side when we have pasta. I feel less guilty for indulging in the creamy goodness!
How do I make Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta?
How can I make Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta?
Bacon Prep:For perfectly crispy bacon, start with cold bacon in a cold skillet. This helps render the fat slowly and evenly, resulting in crispier bacon. What are some good ways to save bacon grease?
What is Chicken Advice?To keep the chicken moist and tender, don’t overcook it. Is it cooked through but still juicy? I like to cut the chicken into uniform sizes so that it cooks evenly.
Sauce Tips: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to thin it out. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few minutes longer to let it reduce.
Ingredient Swaps: You can easily swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or even milk to make it a little lighter. The sauce won’t be as rich, but it will still be delicious. For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Pasta Choice: While I love rotini and penne, any short pasta shape will work. Bowtie pasta, shells, or even elbow macaroni would be great.
Cheese Addition: Experiment with different types of cheese in the sauce. A little cheddar or Monterey Jack would add a different flavor dimension.
I once tried adding some sun-dried tomatoes to this, and it was surprisingly delicious! It added a little tanginess and sweetness that complemented the bacon and ranch perfectly. Don’t be afraid to get creative!
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Refrigerator Storage: Store the pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating it.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating Instructions: To reheat the pasta, add a splash of milk or chicken broth to help loosen up the sauce. You can reheat it in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to store or freeze the pasta, it’s best to add any fresh garnishes (like parsley) right before serving, to keep them fresh and vibrant.
One time, I reheated this pasta after it had been frozen, and it was still surprisingly good! The sauce was a little bit thinner, but the flavor was still there. I just added a little extra Parmesan cheese to thicken it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – my go-to Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s easy, it’s flavorful, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. I hope you’ll give it a try! It is one of the best comfort food recipes you will ever try!
If you like this recipe, you might also enjoy my other pasta dishes, like my classic spaghetti bolognese. It’s another family favorite! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Feel free to leave a comment below with your thoughts and any variations you try. Happy cooking!
5 Must-Try Twists on Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Chicken Breast Cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb Pasta Penne or Rotini
- 8 oz Bacon Cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup Ranch Dressing
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 0.5 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 0.25 cup Chopped Green Onions
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook chicken in a large skillet over medium heat until cooked through. Season with salt and pepper.
- In the same skillet, combine ranch dressing, heavy cream, and cheddar cheese. Heat until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Add cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the sauce. Toss to coat.
- Garnish with green onions and serve immediately.
