Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta: The Ultimate Creamy Comfort Food Recipe
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a rich, comforting dish that brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch-flavored cheese sauce. Tossed with hearty pasta, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or a cozy night at home. Every bite is creamy, savory, and satisfying, making it a guaranteed favorite.
Ingredients
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2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini recommended)
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6 strips bacon
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2 small boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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2 tablespoons butter
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1 tablespoon garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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2 cups half and half
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2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
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2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
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Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove from the skillet, set aside, and reserve the bacon drippings. Once cooled, roughly chop the bacon. -
Prepare the Chicken:
Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.
In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, sear the chicken over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Remove, let rest briefly, then cube. -
Boil the Pasta:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside. -
Make the Sauce:
In the skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the half and half until smooth and slightly thickened.
Add the ranch seasoning and shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. -
Combine and Serve:
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Stir in the cubed chicken and top with chopped bacon. Serve warm.
Notes
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Don’t overcook the pasta—al dente pasta holds up better in creamy sauces.
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Control thickness: Add a splash of pasta water or milk if the sauce gets too thick.
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Add veggies: Broccoli, peas, or spinach work great in this dish.
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Extra flavor: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.