Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta – Creamy, Cheesy & Loaded

This Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta is a rich, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish loaded with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a flavorful ranch-infused sauce. It’s comfort food at its best, perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.

With simple ingredients and easy steps, this one-pot pasta dish is quick to make and always a crowd-pleaser!

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Ingredients for Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta

For the Pasta:

• 12 oz (340g) penne or rotini pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

For the Creamy Ranch Sauce:

• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups (360ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• ½ cup (120g) sour cream
• 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for depth of flavor)
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup (50g) shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnishing:

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra crumbled bacon

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Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Whisk
• Wooden spoon or spatula

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.

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2. Cook the Bacon & Chicken

1. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy (about 5 minutes).
2. Remove bacon, crumble, and set aside. Leave 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
3. Add butter and olive oil to the skillet.
4. Season cubed chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
5. Cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Remove chicken and set aside.

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3. Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in chicken broth, followed by heavy cream and sour cream.
4. Stir in ranch seasoning and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.

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4. Combine Everything

1. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
2. Add cooked pasta and chicken, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce.
3. Mix in crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish.

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5. Serve & Garnish

1. Transfer to serving bowls and top with fresh parsley and extra bacon.
2. Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy ranch pasta!

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Expert Tips for the Best Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta

Use freshly shredded cheese – It melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
Don’t overcook the chicken – Keep it juicy by cooking just until 165°F (75°C).
Adjust the ranch flavor – Start with half a packet and add more if needed.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using pre-shredded cheese – It contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
Skipping the flour step – This thickens the sauce for a creamy consistency.
Overcooking the pasta – Keep it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.

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Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve with garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks.
• Pair with a fresh green salad with ranch dressing.
• Garnish with extra shredded cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.

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How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Storage:

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream.
• Microwave: Warm in 30-second intervals, stirring occasionally.

Freezing:

• Not recommended, as cream-based sauces can separate when thawed.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Make it lighter – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Try different cheeses – Swap cheddar for pepper jack or gouda for extra flavor.
• Add vegetables – Stir in broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrients.

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What to Serve with Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta

• Steamed broccoli or roasted Brussels sprouts
• Crispy Parmesan asparagus
• A side of homemade coleslaw

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Yes! Just shred the chicken and add it directly to the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble everything, store it in the fridge, and reheat before serving.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for extra heat.

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Conclusion

This Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta is creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold ranch flavor, making it a guaranteed family favorite. With crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and a rich homemade sauce, it’s comfort food at its finest!

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious pasta recipes!

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Calories Per Serving

Approximate Calories: 600 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings).

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Serves: 6

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