This creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta is a warm hug on a plate! It combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a rich ranch sauce for a comforting meal everyone loves.
You just can’t go wrong with pasta and bacon, right? I often make this for busy nights—it’s quick to whip up and pairs perfectly with a side salad. Trust me, you’ll want seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I recommend using penne or rotini for their perfect shape in holding the creamy sauce, but spaghetti or fettuccine can work too! If gluten-free is a priority, use gluten-free pasta that you enjoy.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a popular choice for this dish. Thighs add a bit more flavor and juiciness, so feel free to switch things up! You can also use rotisserie chicken for convenience or even skip the meat for a vegetarian dish using mushrooms instead.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a wonderful crunch and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon will still give you a nice texture. For a vegetarian twist, try using smoked tempeh or omit it completely.
Ranch Seasoning: I love using a packet for ease, but homemade ranch seasoning (mixing herbs like dill and parsley with buttermilk powder) can be a fresher choice if you have the time. You could also use Italian seasoning as an alternative!
How Do You Make a Creamy Sauce Without It Curdling?
Creating a delicious creamy sauce requires some care, especially to keep it smooth. Here are key techniques to avoid curdling:
- Cook the garlic in the bacon fat gently to enhance the flavor while keeping it from burning.
- Always reduce the heat when adding dairy. This prevents sudden temperature changes that can cause curdling.
- Stir the cream and milk together before adding them to gradually warm them up, which helps the sauce stay smooth.
- Continuous stirring while adding the cheese ensures it melts evenly and contributes to that velvety texture you’re aiming for!
These tips will help you whip together a creamy, rich dish that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Pasta: 12 oz (340 g) (penne, rotini, or your choice)
- Chicken: 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Bacon: 6 slices
- Oil: 1 tbsp olive oil
- Garlic: 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Heavy Cream: 1 cup
- Milk: 1/2 cup whole milk
- Ranch Seasoning: 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- Cheese: 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup grated
- Seasoning: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Garnish: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta takes about 30 minutes total. It includes 10 minutes for prepping the ingredients and approximately 20 minutes to cook everything. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Crispy Bacon:
While your pasta is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat it over medium heat. Add the bacon slices and cook them until they’re crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, place the bacon on a paper towel to cool, then crumble it into small pieces. Be sure to keep about 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat in the skillet!
3. Cook the Chicken:
If your skillet is dry, add a splash of olive oil. Now, add the chicken pieces to the skillet, sprinkle them with salt and pepper, and cook until they’re golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream and whole milk. Add the ranch seasoning mix and stir everything together well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Add the Cheese:
Next, add the shredded cheddar cheese and the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until everything is melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if you’d like.
7. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken and the crumbled bacon to the skillet. Toss everything together with the cooked pasta until it’s all coated in that luscious creamy ranch sauce.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve your creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta immediately. Enjoy this warm and hearty dish!
FAQ for Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative for added fiber. If you need a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as it may differ from regular pasta!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli. Just sauté them briefly with the garlic for added flavor and nutrients before adding the cream.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream, but keep in mind the sauce may not be as rich. For a dairy-free option, try coconut cream or cashew cream for similar creaminess.
