Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta with vegetables in a serving bowl

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

ByAchraf

why make this recipe

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a fantastic dish that combines some of our favorite flavors—chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing—all in one bowl. It’s creamy, cheesy, and hearty, making it a perfect meal for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick to make, allowing you to satisfy your cravings without spending hours in the kitchen.

how to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces of pasta
  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
  • 1 cup milk
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Directions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain it and return it to the pot.
  2. In a separate bowl, mix together ranch dressing, milk, and shredded cheese.
  3. Add the cooked chicken and crumbled bacon to the pasta.
  4. Pour the ranch mixture over the pasta and stir well to combine.
  5. Cook on medium heat for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through, and the cheese has melted.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired before serving.

how to serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is best served warm. You can dish it out into bowls and sprinkle a bit more cheese or chopped parsley on top for a nice presentation. Pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

how to store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The pasta will last for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk if needed to bring back the creamy texture.

tips to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

  1. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite veggies, like bell peppers or broccoli.
  2. Use rotisserie chicken to save time on cooking the chicken.
  3. If you like a little spice, consider adding a dash of hot sauce to the ranch mixture.

variation

You can easily turn this chicken pasta into a one-pot meal by cooking the pasta along with the chicken and ranch mixture. Just add the uncooked pasta and enough liquid (like broth) to cook it through and absorb all the flavors.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you like—penne, fusilli, or even gluten-free varieties work great!

2. Is it possible to make this dish lighter?
Yes! You can use low-fat ranch dressing and reduce the amount of cheese to make it a bit healthier.

3. How can I make it vegetarian?
You can skip the chicken and bacon and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to create a delicious vegetarian version.