There's nothing quite like the comforting combination of tender pasta, smoky bacon, and a creamy ranch-infused sauce. This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a surefire hit for busy weeknights or casual dinners with friends.
I first discovered this recipe while trying to create a dish that my whole family would enjoy without complaints. Since then, it has become a staple in our home, thanks to its irresistible flavor and simplicity. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot on your table.
Why You'll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Get ready to meet your next favorite dinner recipe. This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is everything you need in a hearty, satisfying meal.
First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With a cooking time of just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of creamy ranch sauce, savory chicken, and crispy bacon is simply irresistible. It’s a flavor-packed dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
This recipe is also highly customizable. Whether you prefer to add extra veggies or experiment with different pasta shapes, it’s a versatile base that adapts to your preferences.
Finally, it’s family-approved and kid-friendly. Even picky eaters can’t resist the creamy, cheesy goodness of this pasta dish. Serve it for dinner, and you’ll have happy faces around the table.
Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta lies in its simple, approachable ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. They cook quickly and shred easily, making them perfect for this creamy pasta dish.
Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for the best flavor and texture. Its smoky, salty notes are the perfect complement to the creamy ranch sauce.
Pasta: Penne or rotini work beautifully here, as their ridges hold onto the sauce. Feel free to use your favorite pasta shape if you prefer something different.
Ranch Dressing: The star of the show! Use your favorite brand or homemade ranch dressing for a creamy, tangy base that ties the whole dish together.
Cheese: A blend of shredded cheddar and Parmesan adds the perfect amount of gooeyness and sharpness to the dish. Grate your own cheese for the best melting quality.
While no special equipment is required, having a large skillet and a pot for boiling pasta makes the process seamless.
How To Make This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Creating this creamy, comforting pasta dish is a breeze. Let’s walk through the steps together.
Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. While the pasta cooks, prepare the chicken. Dice it into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking.
In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside, leaving a bit of the bacon fat in the pan for extra flavor. Add the chicken to the same skillet, seasoning it with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and fully cooked through.
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside. In the same pan, add ranch dressing, shredded cheese, and a splash of milk or chicken broth. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly. Add the cooked chicken and crumble the crispy bacon over the top. Mix everything together until well combined.
Serve the pasta warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage Options
If you happen to have leftovers, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta stores wonderfully.
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more over time, making for a delicious lunch the next day.
To freeze, place the cooled pasta in a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture of the sauce.
Variations and Substitutions
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is highly adaptable, allowing you to make it your own.
- Add vegetables like broccoli, peas, or spinach for a boost of color and nutrients.
- Swap the chicken for turkey or even shrimp for a fun twist.
- Use a gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
- Try a different cheese blend, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella, for a unique flavor profile.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
No matter how you customize it, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
Enjoy this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta as the ultimate comfort meal that brings people together. It’s quick, satisfying, and endlessly delicious—perfect for any occasion.
PrintChicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe
Indulge in this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta recipe, a creamy and hearty dish packed with savory chicken, crispy bacon, and ranch seasoning. Perfect for a comforting family meal!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook diced chicken until golden and fully cooked; remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook minced garlic for 1 minute. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, ranch seasoning, and Parmesan cheese; stir until smooth.
- Stir in cooked pasta, chicken, and crumbled bacon. Add cheddar cheese and toss until melted and well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use any short pasta like rigatoni or shells for variety.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half.
- Add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrients.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 950mg
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