If you love comforting, creamy pasta dishes, then this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta will become your new favorite dinner recipe. This cozy classic combines juicy chicken, smoky bacon, tender pasta, and a rich ranch-seasoned cheese sauce that’s pure comfort in every bite.
It’s easy to make, ready in just 30 minutes, and guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal, hosting friends, or just craving comfort food after a long day — this pasta delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This dish is so much more than just another pasta dinner — it’s a crowd-pleasing comfort food hero. Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Quick & Simple: Ready in about 30 minutes, even for beginners.
- Family-Friendly: A hit with both kids and adults.
- Flavor-Packed: Smoky bacon, creamy ranch sauce, and cheesy goodness in every bite.
- Customizable: Add veggies, switch cheeses, or use different pasta shapes.
- Perfect Make-Ahead Meal: Reheats beautifully for lunch or dinner the next day.
If you want a meal that’s both cozy and crave-worthy, this recipe is your go-to.
Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy masterpiece:
For the Chicken & Bacon
- 6 strips thick-cut bacon
- 2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
For the Pasta
- 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, or fusilli)
- Salt for boiling water
For the Creamy Ranch Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups half-and-half (or 1 cup milk + 1 cup cream)
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped parsley
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Bacon Substitute: For a lighter or pork-free version, use smoked turkey bacon or sautéed mushrooms for a similar smoky flavor.
- Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives great depth, but you can also try Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
- Pasta Choices: Short pasta shapes like rotini or penne work best since they hold onto the sauce.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use unsweetened oat milk and dairy-free cheese.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap in gluten-free pasta and flour.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the Bacon
Start by placing your bacon strips in a large skillet over low heat. Slow-cooking allows them to crisp evenly and render flavorful fat.
Once the bacon is golden and crispy, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate. Do not discard the bacon grease — you’ll use it to cook the chicken.
Pro Tip: Slow-cooked bacon adds deeper flavor and helps prevent splattering.
Step 2 – Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Cut chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized cubes. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
In the same skillet with the bacon grease, cook the chicken over medium-high heat until golden and fully cooked. The chicken will soak up the smoky flavor from the bacon — the secret to this pasta’s delicious depth.
Step 3 – Boil the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook your pasta until al dente.
Drain well and set aside.
Tip: Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water to loosen the sauce later if needed.
Step 4 – Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Sprinkle in the flour and whisk until a smooth roux forms. Slowly pour in the half-and-half while whisking continuously.
Stir in the ranch seasoning and shredded cheddar until the sauce turns smooth, creamy, and velvety.
Optional: Add a splash of milk if the sauce gets too thick.
Step 5 – Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and chicken into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently until everything is coated.
Crumble the cooked bacon over the top and stir again lightly.
Your kitchen will smell incredible — creamy, cheesy, and smoky all at once!
Pro Tips for Success
- Cook Bacon Slowly: This ensures crispy texture and flavorful fat.
- Use Fresh Garlic: It adds depth and aroma that powder can’t replicate.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Slightly firm pasta holds up better in creamy sauces.
- Add Pasta Water: Use it to loosen sauce without thinning flavor.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allow a few minutes for the sauce to thicken slightly.
Flavor Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a touch of cayenne.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in broccoli, peas, or spinach for color and nutrients.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Blend in mozzarella or parmesan for extra meltiness.
- Ranch Twist: Use homemade ranch seasoning for a fresher flavor.
- BBQ Fusion: Add a drizzle of BBQ sauce for a smoky-sweet edge.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta with sides that balance its richness:
- Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or asparagus work great.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the leftover creamy sauce.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
To Store:
Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
To Reheat:
Warm on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
To Freeze:
Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 560 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 28g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
(Approximate values; may vary by ingredients.)
FAQ About Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Can I use leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken works beautifully and saves time.
Can I make this pasta ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dish without baking, store it in the fridge, and reheat gently when ready to serve.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
You can make your own with a mix of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley, and a touch of salt.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely — penne, fusilli, or shells are ideal since they trap the sauce perfectly.
How do I make it lighter?
Use milk instead of cream and substitute turkey bacon for a leaner version.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate family comfort meal — creamy, smoky, and satisfying in every way. With simple ingredients, flexible substitutions, and a 30-minute cook time, it’s a weeknight winner you’ll want to make again and again.
If you’re looking for a dish that blends classic flavors with irresistible creaminess, this recipe is your perfect match.
Print
Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta – Creamy & Delicious
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Creamy, cheesy, and smoky Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta made with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and rich ranch cream sauce.
Ingredients
6 strips thick-cut bacon
2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning
2 cups uncooked pasta
2 tbsp butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp flour
2 cups half-and-half
1 packet ranch seasoning
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Chopped parsley (optional)
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Cook bacon slowly until crispy; reserve grease.
2. Season and cook chicken in bacon drippings until golden.
3. Boil pasta until al dente; drain.
4. Melt butter; add garlic and flour, then whisk in half-and-half.
5. Add ranch seasoning and cheese; stir until creamy.
6. Combine pasta, chicken, and bacon with sauce.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
For a lighter version, use turkey bacon and milk instead of cream.
Add veggies like broccoli or peas for color and crunch.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 560
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
