Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Step 3: Cook the Bacon

1. In a separate skillet, cook bacon slices over medium heat until crispy.
2. Drain excess grease on paper towels.
3. Chop into small pieces and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for the chicken (add a little butter if needed), sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Lower the heat and add heavy cream, milk, and cream cheese. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth.
3. Sprinkle in ranch seasoning, salt, and pepper, stirring constantly.
4. Add the shredded cheese gradually, letting it melt into the sauce.

Pro tip: Stir continuously on low heat to prevent the sauce from curdling.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy ranch sauce.
2. Stir in the sliced chicken and chopped bacon.
3. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
4. Mix everything thoroughly so that every piece of pasta is coated in the creamy ranch goodness.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large serving dish.
2. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added flavor.
3. Optionally, top with extra shredded cheese or a dash of red pepper flakes.

Serve hot and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta!

Tips for Perfection

• Pasta Choice: Rotini or penne work best because their shapes hold the creamy sauce.
• Chicken Alternative: You can use rotisserie chicken for a faster version.
• Bacon Swap: Turkey bacon works too, though the flavor will be milder.
• Make it Lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Final Thoughts:
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a luscious, creamy dish that satisfies cravings for comfort food while being surprisingly easy to make. With tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a velvety ranch sauce, it’s a dish that quickly becomes a family favorite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

If you want, I can also create a quick 30-minute “express version” of this dish that’s even faster without losing flavor.

Do you want me to do that?