Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Name: Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces of penne pasta; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup ranch dressing; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a deliciously indulgent dish that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich, creamy ranch sauce over al dente pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

Created by

Charity Bowen

Last updated on 2025-12-21T04:35:56.424Z

This dish has quickly become a family favorite due to its rich flavors and creamy texture. The combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch is simply irresistible, making it a perfect meal for any night of the week!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and creamy sauce that envelops the pasta perfectly
Crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Perfect for Any Occasion

Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that fits seamlessly into various dining scenarios. Whether you're hosting a casual family dinner or preparing for a special gathering, this dish will impress your guests. The combination of savory chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch sauce creates a flavor profile that appeals to both adults and children alike. It's a meal that brings everyone together around the table, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or festive occasions.

Additionally, this recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers. This not only enhances the nutritional value but also adds vibrant colors to your dish, making it visually appealing. With such flexibility, you can easily adapt this recipe to cater to various dietary preferences or restrictions.

Quick and Easy Preparation

One of the standout features of Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is its simplicity. Within just a few steps, you can create a mouthwatering dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. With minimal prep and cook time, you can have a delicious meal on the table in about 30 minutes.

The straightforward preparation process means you don't need to be a culinary expert to achieve fantastic results. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple techniques, anyone can whip up this dish. The use of cooked chicken and pre-cooked bacon also speeds up the cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal without the hassle.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 ounces of penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all the ingredients in one place for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken and cook until heated through. Stir in the heavy cream and ranch dressing, mixing well.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Stir to combine everything, then mix in the cheddar cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve the pasta warm, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy your creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta!

Make sure to enjoy this dish fresh for the best flavor!

Make It Your Own

One of the best things about Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is its adaptability. While the recipe outlines a specific combination of ingredients, feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors. For instance, if you're a fan of spice, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the dish a little kick.

You can also switch out the pasta type; penne works wonderfully, but you could use farfalle, fusilli, or even gluten-free pasta if desired. Additionally, substituting the chicken with shrimp or a plant-based protein can create a delightful alternative, catering to different dietary needs while maintaining the dish's creamy essence.

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing your Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta with a fresh garden salad. A crisp salad dressed with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pasta, balancing the meal perfectly. You can include ingredients like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.

For beverage pairings, a chilled white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, works beautifully with this dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a slice of lemon can provide a refreshing palate cleanser as you enjoy your creamy pasta.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you like will work well with this sauce.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Just combine and heat when ready to serve.

→ Is there a way to make this dish healthier?

You can substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option like Greek yogurt or a low-fat cream alternative.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Certainly! Vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli would be great additions.