Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe

There’s something magical about a bowl of creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta that just makes the world feel right. Picture it: tender chunks of chicken swimming in a luscious ranch sauce, with crispy bits of bacon providing that perfect crunch. It’s a flavor explosion that takes you straight to comfort food heaven!

Now let me take you back to the time I made this dish for my friends’ movie night. The room was filled with laughter and buttery popcorn scents when I served this crowd-pleaser. As soon as they took their first bites, I could hear angels singing—or maybe that was just my friends moaning in delight. Either way, it was a hit! If you’re looking for an easy yet scrumptious meal to brighten up your day or impress your guests on game night, this chicken bacon ranch pasta is where it’s at.

My family devoured this dish so quickly; I barely got a chance to take a photo!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 2-3 breasts; adjust based on how many you’re feeding.
• Bacon: Crispy bacon adds texture and flavor; feel free to use turkey bacon for a lighter option.
• Pasta (Fusilli or Penne): Choose your favorite shape; these hold onto the sauce beautifully.
• Ranch Dressing: A good quality dressing provides fantastic flavor; look for one without added sugars.
• Fresh Spinach: Optional but recommended for added nutrition and color; toss in towards the end of cooking.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese adds richness—who can resist cheesy goodness?

For seasoning:

• Garlic Powder: A must-have for depth of flavor; fresh minced garlic works too!
• Salt and Pepper: Essential staples—don’t skimp on seasoning.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Start by cooking your pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your chosen pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside while you prepare the rest.

Cook the chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced boneless skinless chicken breasts seasoned with salt and pepper. Sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Add crispy bacon: Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in crispy crumbled bacon until everything is heated through and evenly combined—this should take about 2 minutes.

Mix in ranch dressing: Pour in your favorite ranch dressing and mix well—let it simmer for another couple of minutes until warmed through.

Combine everything together: Gently fold in your cooked pasta along with fresh spinach if using—cook just until spinach wilts slightly.

Finish with cheese: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over your creamy mixture before serving—it adds an irresistible touch!

Serve warm: Dish out generous servings into bowls, making sure everyone gets plenty of that delicious sauce! Enjoy with garlic bread or salad if desired!

Now sit back and watch as everyone digs into their plates with happy smiles or blissful sighs!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Sear the chicken first, then cook the pasta while preparing the sauce for best results.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or add spices for a personalized kick.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat on low heat for optimal flavor.

Sharing this dish at my last family gathering, I was met with smiles and requests for seconds, confirming it’s a hit every time.

FAQ

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, turkey works great and adds a different flavor profile to the dish.

What can I substitute for ranch dressing?

Greek yogurt mixed with herbs is a healthy alternative to traditional ranch dressing.

How do I make this dish spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give your chicken bacon ranch pasta some heat.

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Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe

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• Author: Sophie
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Savor the creamy goodness of this chicken ranch pasta, featuring tender chicken and fresh herbs for a quick, comforting weeknight meal.

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Ingredients

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• 2 cups fusilli pasta
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb), diced
• 4 slices turkey bacon, crumbled
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup fresh spinach (optional)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. 1. Cook the fusilli pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. 2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced chicken seasoned with salt and pepper until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 6-8 minutes.
3. 3. Add crumbled turkey bacon to the skillet with the chicken and stir for about 2 minutes until heated through.
4. 4. Pour in the ranch dressing and let it simmer for another couple of minutes until warmed through.
5. 5. Gently fold in the cooked pasta and fresh spinach (if using), cooking just until the spinach wilts slightly.
6. 6. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the mixture before serving.

Notes

• For added flavor, mix in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli.
•  Swap ranch dressing with Greek yogurt mixed with herbs for a healthier alternative.
• To spice things up, add red pepper flakes or jalapeños.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sauteing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
• Calories: 550
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 890mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 62g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 90mg