Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta (Creamy, Cheesy Comfort You’ll Crave)

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Bacon

1. Cook bacon in a large skillet over low heat until crispy.

2. Remove bacon, reserve drippings, and roughly chop once cooled.

3. Carefully wipe the skillet clean.

Prepare the Chicken

1. Slice chicken breasts into thinner pieces. Pat dry.

2. Season both sides with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

3. Heat 2 tablespoons bacon drippings in the skillet over medium-high heat.

4. Sear chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

5. Let rest 5 minutes, then cut into cubes.

Boil the Pasta

1. Bring salted water to a boil.

2. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Sauce

1. Melt butter in the skillet over medium heat.

2. Sauté garlic for 1 minute.

3. Add flour and stir continuously for 1 minute.

4. Warm the half and half, then add gradually while stirring.

5. Bring to a gentle bubble, then reduce heat to low.

6. Stir in ranch seasoning.

7. Gradually add shredded cheese until smooth.

Combine Everything

1. Add pasta to the sauce and gently combine.

2. Add chicken and heat through.

3. Garnish with bacon or stir it directly into the pasta. Serve hot!

What to Serve With Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

• Garlic bread with cheese

• Simple green salad

• Roasted vegetables

• Steamed broccoli

• Corn on the cob

Tips for the Best Pasta

• Shred cheese from a block for smoother melting

• Don’t overcook the pasta—it will soak up sauce

• Use thick-cut bacon for extra flavor

• Let the sauce sit a minute to thicken before serving

Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days

• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave

• Add a splash of milk if the sauce thickens too much

Casserole Method

1. Prepare recipe as directed, cooking pasta just to al dente.

2. Transfer to a 9×13-inch casserole dish or oven-safe skillet.

3. Top with 1½ cups additional shredded cheddar cheese.

4. Cover and bake at 350°F for 30 minutes.

Make-Ahead Method

1. Cook pasta 1 minute less than al dente.

2. Assemble in a casserole dish and top with cheese.

3. Cover and refrigerate up to 2 days.

4. Bake covered at 350°F for 40 minutes.

5. Uncover and bake 5 more minutes.

General Recipe Information

• Cuisine: American comfort food

• Difficulty: Easy

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Servings: 4–6

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bake this instead of stovetop?

Yes! Follow the casserole method above for an extra-cheesy finish.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely—this recipe is perfect for leftovers.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, but you can add red pepper flakes if you like heat.

Can I freeze it?

Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so fresh is best.

Conclusion

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is comfort food at its finest—creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavor. Whether you serve it straight from the skillet or bubbly from the oven, it’s guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends.

More Chicken Recipes You’ll Love

• 4-Ingredient Chicken and Stuffing Bake

• One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles

• Cheesy and Crunchy Doritos Chicken Casserole

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 610

• Protein: 36g

• Carbohydrates: 42g

• Fat: 34g

• Sodium: 980mg

Creamy, comforting, and totally irresistible—this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is one you’ll make again and again. 💛