Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
A creamy, smoky, and comforting pasta dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 12 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or bowties) Holds the sauce beautifully.
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed Rotisserie works for speed.
- 6 slices bacon, cooked crisp and chopped Adds smoky crunch.
- 2 tablespoons butter For a silky start.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Warms the soul.
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half For indulgent creaminess.
- 1 cup chicken broth Deepens flavor without heaviness.
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan Melts into a glossy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix The signature tang and herb.
- 1 cup frozen peas or steamed broccoli florets Add a pop of color and nutrition.
- to taste none Salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste.
- none none Fresh chives or parsley, chopped For garnish.
Substitutions
- none none turkey bacon For a leaner choice.
- none none gluten-free pasta To make it gluten-free.
- none none evaporated milk and cornstarch Swap heavy cream for a lighter option.
Instructions
Cooking Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
Preparing Bacon
- While the pasta cooks, crisp the bacon in a skillet over medium heat. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate and chop when cool.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in the ranch seasoning.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer, then whisk in the Parmesan until the sauce is glossy and slightly thickened. If it gets too thick, add reserved pasta water a splash at a time.
Combining Ingredients
- Add shredded chicken, peas or broccoli, and chopped bacon into the sauce. Stir to warm through and for flavors to meld.
- Toss the drained pasta into the skillet, coating every noodle. Taste and season with salt and pepper. Finish with fresh chives or parsley.
- Serve immediately while creamy and comforting.
Notes
For a festive meal, add sun-dried tomatoes and toasted pine nuts. Make it lighter by using grilled chicken and turkey bacon. Vegetarian option available by swapping chicken and bacon with smoked tempeh.