Description
This Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta is rich, creamy, and packed with crispy bacon, juicy chicken, and a homemade ranch-infused sauce!
Ingredients
Scale
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
For Garnishing:
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra crumbled bacon
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon & Chicken
- In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy (about 5 minutes).
- Remove bacon, crumble, and set aside. Leave 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan.
- Add butter and olive oil to the skillet.
- Season cubed chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Cook over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly for 1 minute to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in chicken broth, followed by heavy cream and sour cream.
- Stir in ranch seasoning and Dijon mustard. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
4. Combine Everything
- Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta and chicken, tossing to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Mix in crumbled bacon, reserving some for garnish.
5. Serve & Garnish
- Transfer to serving bowls and top with fresh parsley and extra bacon.
- Serve warm and enjoy this creamy, cheesy ranch pasta!
Notes
✔ 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.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: DINNER
- Cuisine: AMERICAN
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 600
