When I first made this Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta, it became an instant favorite in my household! The creamy ranch-infused sauce combined with crispy bacon, cheesy goodness, and flavorful chicken creates a comforting dish you’ll want to make again and again.

It’s surprisingly simple to prepare and tastes like it’s straight out of a restaurant. I’m excited to share this recipe with you so you can enjoy the same hearty and satisfying meal at your dining table!

Ingredients

This dish is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are the ingredients you’ll need, along with some tips to ensure success:

1 lb pasta (penne or rotini works best): These shapes hold onto the sauce well. Avoid overcooking for perfect texture.
6 slices thick-cut bacon, cooked and crumbled: Fry until crispy for the optimal crunch.
2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces: Use fresh chicken for the best flavor and tenderness.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Adds basic seasoning for the chicken.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Adds depth to the flavor.
1 tablespoon butter: Helps deglaze the pan during cooking.
2 tablespoons flour: Helps thicken the sauce for a creamy consistency.
2 cups chicken broth: Forms the base of the sauce. Use low-sodium if preferred.
1 package (1 oz) dry ranch seasoning mix: Provides the signature ranch flavor.
1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half: Ensures the sauce is rich and smooth.
2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded: Grate fresh for the best melting quality.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Adds a splash of color and freshness for garnish.

Note: This recipe serves 4 generously. Increase quantities as needed for larger families or gatherings.

Variations

Want to make this recipe your own? Here are some easy variations to suit different needs or tastes:

Dairy-Free: Replace the heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese variety.
Low-Carb Version: Swap pasta with zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
Extra Veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a nutritional boost.
Protein Swap: Substitute grilled shrimp or turkey sausage for the chicken.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper or diced jalapeños to the sauce.

For a light and crunchy side, consider this Asian Chicken Crunch Salad.

Cooking Time

Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need to whip up this dish:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Equipment You Need

Having the right tools on hand makes this recipe even easier to prepare:

Large pot: To cook the pasta.
Large skillet or Dutch oven: For frying bacon, chicken, and making the sauce.
Cutting board and knife: Essential for prepping the chicken and parsley.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula: Perfect for stirring the sauce and combining ingredients.
Colander: To drain the pasta after boiling.

How to Make Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta?

This is a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require much effort. Follow these steps, and you’ll have the perfect dish ready in no time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions in salted boiling water. Drain and set it aside. While the pasta boils, you can multitask by preparing the bacon and chicken.

Step 2: Prepare the Bacon

Cook the bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, set the bacon aside on a paper towel to drain, and reserve about 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings in the skillet.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Using the same skillet with the reserved bacon drippings, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until it’s golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Melt the butter in the skillet, then stir in the flour to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and ranch seasoning mix. Allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens slightly. Stir in the cream and shredded cheddar cheese until smooth and creamy. Now, Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and half the crumbled bacon to the sauce.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Now, mix everything until well-coated. Stir gently over low heat to warm through. Serve on plates or bowls, garnished with the remaining bacon and parsley.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Having made this dish several times, I’ve learned a few tricks to make it even more delicious:

Grate the Cheese Fresh: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce less creamy.
Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Slightly undercooked pasta works best, as it will continue cooking in the sauce.
Use Thick-Cut Bacon: It gives the dish a meaty, crispy texture.
Season in Layers: Taste as you go and adjust seasoning to avoid a bland final dish.

For a fresh and healthy twist, try these Thai Chicken Lettuce Wraps.

How to Serve Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta?

Presentation makes all the difference! Serve this dish hot in large bowls or on pasta plates. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated parmesan for added flair. You can pair it with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Trust me, the vibrant colors and rich aroma alone will have everyone eager to dig in!

Nutritional Information

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving:

Calories: 552
Protein: 34g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 35g

(Exact values may vary depending on ingredient brands and quantities.)

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is great for meal prep or leftovers! Here’s how to store it properly:

Make Ahead: Prepare the components (pasta, chicken, bacon, and sauce) separately and combine them when you’re ready to serve.
Refrigerating: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed.
Freezing: Freeze in single-serving portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

There are plenty of reasons to add this recipe to your rotation. Here are a few:

Quick and Easy: It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Crowd-Pleaser: Both kids and adults love its rich, comforting flavors.
One-Pot Option: Save on cleanup by making it all in one skillet.
Perfect for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully for next-day lunches.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

Avoiding these pitfalls can make your cooking experience even smoother:

Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It’s tempting, but freshly grated cheese truly makes a difference.
Skipping the Seasoning: Under-seasoned chicken and pasta can make the dish less flavorful.
Overcooking the Sauce: Allowing the sauce to boil can cause it to separate. Keep it at a gentle simmer.
Forgetting to Reserve Pasta Water: If the sauce becomes too thick, a little pasta water can help loosen it.

Perfecting this recipe is all about attention to detail and layering flavors. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll see why it’s such a hit with everyone who tastes it! Enjoy your homemade Cheddar Bacon Ranch Chicken Pasta, and don’t forget to savor every creamy, cheesy bite.

For more chicken inspiration, check out this Chicken Recipes collection.

Ash Tyrrell