Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe

Craving a cozy, satisfying meal that’s full of flavor? This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the perfect fix. With tender chicken, crispy bacon, a rich ranch-infused sauce, and al dente pasta, it’s a dish you’ll keep coming back to—whether for family dinner or a treat-yourself moment.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these staples for an unforgettable meal in no time!

12 oz pasta (penne or rotini are great choices for holding the sauce)

1 lb chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces

6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled

1 cup ranch dressing for a tangy kick

1 cup heavy cream for creaminess

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese for cheesy perfection

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tsp onion powder + 1 tsp Italian seasoning for added depth and flavor

Easy Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook your pasta until it’s al dente (just firm enough to hold its shape). Drain and set aside.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcook—mixing with the sauce later will soften the pasta further!

2. Sauté the Chicken

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your diced chicken and cook until golden on the outside and fully cooked inside. Once done, set aside.

Chef’s Tip: A golden sear locks in moisture and adds extra flavor.

3. Crisp the Bacon

Using the same skillet, cook your bacon until it’s delightfully crispy. Crumble the bacon into smaller pieces and set aside.

Helpful Hint: Dispose of excess bacon grease for a cleaner dish.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and pour in the ranch dressing and heavy cream. Stir continuously and watch as a luscious, creamy base comes together.

Out of Ranch Dressing? Use ranch seasoning mix blended with water as a substitution. Want a lighter option? Greek yogurt works wonders to cut some calories while keeping it creamy.

5. Combine the Flavors

Add your cooked pasta, chicken, and bacon to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat in that velvety sauce, then sprinkle on the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted and everything comes together beautifully.

6. Final Touches

Season to taste with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives for a touch of elegance.

Pro Tip: Fresh herbs brighten up the dish and balance its rich flavors!

What Makes This Dish a Winner?

🌟 Layers of Unforgettable Flavor

From the tangy ranch to the smoky bacon and creamy cheddar, each ingredient plays a role in creating a symphony of taste.

⏱ Quick & Simple

Have this soul-warming meal ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights or last-minute cravings.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family-Approved

It’s loved by kids and adults alike! Picky eaters, be warned—this dish might just become everyone’s favorite.

✨ Fully Customizable

Swap cheddar for mozzarella for a different cheesy twist.

Use gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

Add veggies like broccoli or spinach for a nutrition boost and extra texture.

Nutrition Snapshot (Per Serving)

Fat: 26g | Protein: 36g | Carbs: 58g

Want to lighten it up? Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt to reduce fat and increase protein.

Pro Cooking Tips & Hacks

Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley, basil, or cilantro can elevate the flavors and add freshness.

Turn Up the Heat: Craving spice? A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds just the right amount of kick.

Lighten the Load: Greek yogurt is a great stand-in for heavy cream to make it healthier without compromising creaminess.

This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is comfort in a bowl—perfectly balanced, endlessly customizable, and quick to make. Whether it’s a cozy dinner with loved ones or a treat-yourself moment, this recipe delivers every single time.

Got a creative twist on this dish? Share your ideas or photos—we’d love to see how you make it your own! Happy cooking! ✨