Bacon Chicken Ranch Pasta

Dig into this flavorful Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta that's all about comfort. You get juicy chicken, crunchy bacon, and a thick, cheesy ranch sauce tossed with pasta. Perfect when you want something cozy and quick, especially after a busy day. Cheddar, a splash of half and half, ranch seasoning, and smoky bacon make every bite pop.

INGREDIENTS

• Dry ranch seasoning: 2 tbsp, gives zippy flavor
• Garlic: 1 tbsp, chopped up small for fragrance
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: 2, these add heartiness
• Pasta like rotini or penne: 2 cups, any fun shape works
• Bacon strips: 6, cook till crispy for crunch
• Flour: 3 tbsp, helps give chicken a tasty coating
• Italian herbs: 1 tsp, for herby vibes
• Onion powder: 1 tsp, for depth
• Cheddar cheese: 1 ½ cups, shredded for melty goodness
• Half and half or whole milk: 2 cups, makes it creamy
• Salt and pepper: toss on as needed for balance

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 7:

Once it’s all creamy, crumble bacon over everything while it’s hot and dig in.

Step 6:

Mix chicken and pasta in with the cheesy sauce. Give it a few stirs till things tighten up.

Step 5:

Now, toss the minced garlic into your skillet and cook for about a minute. Slowly pour in warm half and half as you whisk. Add ranch spice and cheese, then whisk again till smooth.

Step 4:

Fire up your water, cook pasta as the package says, then drain and put to the side.

Step 3:

Chop your chicken, coat with flour, spices, salt, and pepper. Sear in the bacon oil 'til golden, set aside after.

Step 2:

Fry up the bacon low and slow so it crisps. Don’t toss the drippings, you’ll need them.

Step 1:

Start off by grating your cheese and letting it get to room temp. While you wait, leave the bacon out to sit for 5 minutes before you cook it.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Keep leftovers sealed in the fridge and they'll be good for three days.
• Enjoy straight from the stove for the yummiest texture.

Helpful Notes

• Craving extra ranch vibes? Add more to dial up the zing.
• Use store-bought rotisserie chicken to save time.

Pointers from Famous Chefs

• For heat lovers, splash some hot sauce into the cheese sauce for a surprise kick.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Think cozy, cheesy, bacon-packed goodness. It’s super easy, extra satisfying, and guaranteed to make mouths happy at the dinner table. Your crew will want more every time.

How to Make Ahead and Store

Prep the sauce early and pop it in the fridge. Boil the pasta just before you’re ready to eat and mix for maximum freshness.

FAQs

Is pre-cooked bacon ok?

Totally. Just smash it up and sprinkle over the top when you’re ready to serve.

How do I make it gluten-free?

Go with gluten-free noodles and swap in gluten-free flour—easy fix.

Can I toss in veggies?

Absolutely! Try some spinach, peas, or broccoli for a fresh bite.

What’s the best way to warm it up?

Heat in a skillet over low, add a splash of milk if it’s thick, and stir till creamy again.

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Summary

Bacon Chicken Ranch Pasta takes creamy ranch flavors paired with chewy pasta, crispy bacon, and cheddar cheese for a filling, family-friendly dish. The pasta is coated in a cheesy, smooth ranch sauce, then finished with crunchy bits of bacon. This hearty meal is great for cozy evenings, gatherings, or when you crave an easy, satisfying dish.