Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Featured in: Center of the plate recipes

This chicken bacon ranch pasta blends tender chicken breast, crisp bacon, and rotini in a creamy cheddar sauce brightened with ranch flavoring. Italian seasoning and onion powder add savory depth, while garlic enriches the aroma. Quick-cooking techniques keep the chicken moist and the bacon crunchy, ensuring each bite is balanced. This dish captures comfort with every forkful, perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings. Adjust pasta type or use whole milk as needed for personal twists, and serve fresh for the creamiest finish.

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Updated on Tue, 08 Jul 2025 19:15:11 GMT
A delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta dish is served on a plate. Pin it
A delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta dish is served on a plate. | myhomemaderecipe.com

Chicken bacon ranch pasta is that one dish I turn to when comfort and bold flavors come together for a warm and satisfying family meal. It features juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a velvety ranch-infused cheese sauce, all wrapped around your favorite pasta shape. Whether you need a weeknight dinner or a dish for sharing with friends, this pasta truly hits the spot.

The combination of smoky bacon, tangy ranch, and cheesy sauce won over my entire family on the first try. I started making it for weekend dinners and now it is my most requested comfort food whenever everyone is home.

Ingredients

  • Cheddar cheese about one and a half cups shredded: Choose a sharp variety for bold flavor and shred your own for best melting
  • Salt and pepper to taste: Freshly ground is worth the extra step for better seasoning
  • Onion powder: Gives depth and a sweet savory background
  • Italian seasoning: For herby brightness Look for a blend with oregano basil and thyme for a classic flavor
  • Flour three tablespoons: For thickening the sauce go with all-purpose and make sure it is fresh for smooth sauce
  • Bacon six strips: Pick thick cut if possible for extra crunch
  • Boneless skinless chicken breasts: For lean protein Look for chicken that is firm and moist with no strong odor
  • Pasta about two cups uncooked: Shapes like rotini penne or bow tie hold onto the creamy sauce nicely Choose a brand with visible texture for best results
  • Minced garlic: For a punch of brightness Freshly minced garlic tastes best
  • Half and half two cups: Creates a creamier consistency than milk but you can use whole milk for a lighter dish
  • Dry ranch dressing seasoning mix: Brings all the signature tangy ranch notes Use a reputable brand for the best flavor

Instructions

Prepare the Cheese:
Shred your cheddar cheese and leave it at room temperature This helps it melt into the sauce without clumping for that creamy texture
Prep and Cook the Bacon:
Let your bacon strips sit out for a few minutes to take the chill off before dicing Cut them into squares then slowly cook in a large skillet over low heat Turn the pieces as they curl Render the fat but do not rush this patience means crisp bacon and flavorful drippings
Season and Dredge the Chicken:
Chop chicken breasts into bite sized pieces and toss with a generous pinch of salt pepper onion powder and Italian seasoning Coat in flour for a light crust that locks in the juiciness
Brown the Chicken:
Raise the heat to medium high Add the floured chicken to the skillet with the reserved bacon drippings Sear for about five minutes until the sides are golden and the inside is fully cooked Transfer the chicken out and keep warm
Cook the Pasta:
Bring a separate pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil Cook your chosen pasta according to package timing until just al dente Drain and set aside but reserve a bit of pasta water in case you need to loosen up your sauce later
Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the empty skillet Sauté for about a minute over gentle heat stirring so it blooms in the bacon and chicken fond without browning or burning
Start the Sauce:
Warm the half and half in the microwave for about forty seconds to keep the sauce from breaking Pour it slowly into the skillet whisking well to carry up all the flavor on the bottom
Melt in the Cheese and Ranch:
Gradually sprinkle in the cheddar cheese and the ranch seasoning whisking the whole time The sauce should turn glossy and smooth as the cheese melts and emulsifies
Combine Everything:
Add the cooked chicken pieces back to the skillet and stir in the drained pasta Toss gently so everything is evenly coated Turn heat to low and let sit for a moment so the sauce can thicken around the noodles
Serve with Bacon:
Finally crumble the cooked bacon as fine or chunky as you like Sprinkle generously over the plated pasta right before serving for unbeatable savory crunch
A plate of chicken bacon ranch pasta, topped with cheese and bacon bits. Pin it
A plate of chicken bacon ranch pasta, topped with cheese and bacon bits. | myhomemaderecipe.com

That ranch seasoning really takes this creamy sauce to another level I always taste test with a little extra ranch near the end because it reminds me of summer picnics with my siblings whenever we make this meal together

Storage Tips

Chicken bacon ranch pasta holds up well for up to three days in the refrigerator Store it in a sealed container For reheating add a splash of milk or half and half to loosen the sauce and keep everything creamy You can also freeze individual portions for up to two months but I find the sauce stays silkier when enjoyed fresh

Ingredient Substitutions

Use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon if you want a leaner dish For a different cheese profile try Monterey Jack or mozzarella If you do not have ranch seasoning blend together dried dill parsley garlic powder and onion powder Pasta like fusilli or shells works too even gluten free or whole grain options suit this creamy sauce

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta hot out of the pan topped with more bacon and chopped fresh parsley Pair with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil and some crusty garlic bread For extra richness try a sprinkle of Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream on each bowl

Cultural Context

Chicken bacon ranch pasta is an all American comfort food classic marrying Southern love of creamy dressings with Italian inspired pasta dishes It is a popular potluck and weeknight dinner because it takes favorite family flavors and transforms them into a filling meal

A delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta dish is served on a plate. Pin it
A delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta dish is served on a plate. | myhomemaderecipe.com

This creamy pasta is real comfort food that always impresses a crowd and is even better the next day. Try it once and it may just become a new family staple.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I get the cheddar cheese sauce extra smooth?

Let the shredded cheddar reach room temperature and add it gradually to the warm half and half, stirring constantly for a silky sauce.

→ What types of pasta work best in this dish?

Short shapes like rotini, penne, bow tie, or rigatoni all hold the creamy sauce and bacon pieces effectively.

→ Can I substitute turkey bacon or vegetarian options?

Yes, turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives work; adjust cooking time so they crisp properly for texture.

→ How do I prevent the chicken from getting dry?

Dredge chicken pieces in seasoned flour and avoid overcooking by monitoring them closely over medium-high heat.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead of time?

Prepare components in advance and combine just before serving; reheat with a splash of milk if needed for creaminess.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Creamy chicken pasta with bacon, cheddar, and ranch, offering a comforting, flavorful dish for weeknight dinners.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
45 Minutes
By: Susan

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 4 Servings (One large skillet of pasta)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ Main Components

01 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
02 6 strips bacon
03 2 cups uncooked pasta (rotini, penne, rigatoni, or bow tie)

→ Sauce and Seasonings

04 1 ½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
05 2 cups half and half or whole milk
06 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
07 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
08 1 teaspoon onion powder
09 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
10 Salt, to taste
11 Pepper, to taste
12 3 tablespoons flour

Instructions

Step 01

Shred cheddar cheese and let it sit at room temperature to ensure smooth melting.

Step 02

Let bacon rest at room temperature for 5 minutes, then cut into squares using kitchen scissors.

Step 03

Heat a large skillet over low heat. Add bacon and cook slowly, turning occasionally for even crisping. Reserve 2 tablespoons bacon drippings in the skillet.

Step 04

Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Toss chicken in flour to coat evenly.

Step 05

Increase heat to medium-high. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for approximately 5 minutes, or until golden brown. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 06

Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve.

Step 07

Add minced garlic to the skillet with reserved drippings. Sauté over medium heat for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 08

Warm the half and half in the microwave for 40 seconds. Gradually whisk into the skillet with garlic, blending thoroughly.

Step 09

Slowly whisk in shredded cheddar and ranch seasoning mix, stirring frequently until cheese is fully melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 10

Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add drained pasta and toss to coat with sauce evenly.

Step 11

Reduce heat to low. Allow sauce to thicken briefly. Crumble cooked bacon and sprinkle over pasta before plating.

Notes

  1. Warming cheese to room temperature prevents clumping and promotes creamy blending in the sauce.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet
  • Large pot
  • Kitchen scissors
  • Whisk
  • Microwave-safe container

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains milk, cheese, and wheat (gluten).

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 695
  • Total Fat: 38 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 54 g
  • Protein: 34 g