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Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta topped with crispy bacon and herbs

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

A creamy, quick, and flavorful pasta dish made with chicken, crispy bacon, and a ranch cheese sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 570

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, shredded You can use mozzarella for a milder sauce.
  • 6 strips bacon Crisp the bacon to use drippings for the chicken.
  • 2 small boneless skinless chicken breasts Slice thinly and season before cooking.
  • 2 cups uncooked pasta (Rotini recommended) Short pasta holds sauce better.
  • 2 tablespoons butter For making the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons flour To thicken the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 2 cups half and half Can substitute with whole milk.
  • 2 tablespoons dry ranch dressing seasoning mix
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Set aside, reserve drippings, and roughly chop the bacon once cooled.
  2. Slice the chicken breasts into thinner pieces, season with salt, pepper, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Sear in bacon drippings over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through. Cube after resting.
  3. Cook the pasta in boiling salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Making the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Add flour, then gradually add half and half while stirring.
  2. Stir in ranch seasoning and cheese until smooth and melted.
Combining
  1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, then add the chicken and garnish with chopped bacon. Serve warm.

Notes

Serve hot in shallow bowls for the best experience. Pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables. Sprinkle extra cheese or chopped parsley for added color. Consider lemon wedges for added brightness.