Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Name: Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta of your choice; 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded; 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup ranch dressing; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delightful dish filled with rich flavors, tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce that binds it all together.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-20T20:35:56.424Z

This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. It's perfect for busy weeknights, yet indulgent enough for special occasions. The combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing creates a rich and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavors from the bacon and ranch dressing
Creamy texture that perfectly coats the pasta
Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for a weeknight dinner

      

A Perfect Weeknight Meal

Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the epitome of a satisfying weeknight meal. It brings together the comforting elements of pasta with the indulgent flavors of creamy ranch and crispy bacon. Whether you're coming home from a long day at work or just looking for a quick family dinner, this dish checks all the boxes. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for busy cooks.

The one-pot nature of this recipe means less cleanup, which is always a bonus. You can focus on enjoying your meal rather than worrying about the dishes piling up afterward. This dish is not only delicious but also practical, making it a staple in many households.

Versatile Ingredient Options

One of the great things about this pasta dish is its versatility. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, for an extra nutritional boost. You can also swap the chicken for turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

If you want to amp up the flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding some crushed red pepper flakes for a kick. The ranch dressing can also be replaced with a homemade version, giving you control over the ingredients and taste.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, storing Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is easy. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish multiple times throughout the week without the hassle of cooking each time.

When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy texture. Heat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently, until warmed through. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture. Enjoy the flavors just as they were when freshly made!

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients for this delicious creamy pasta dish!

Ingredients

8 oz pasta of your choice
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup ranch dressing
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking steps.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta.

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the ranch dressing and heavy cream. Stir until well mixed and heated through.

Combine Ingredients

Add the shredded chicken and crumbled bacon to the skillet. Mix well to combine with the sauce.

Add Pasta

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

Enjoy your Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta!

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta with a fresh side salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the creaminess and add a refreshing element. Additionally, a side of garlic bread would complement the pasta beautifully, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli. These options not only enhance the meal's flavor but also add color and nutrition to your plate.

Nutritional Insights

This creamy pasta dish, while indulgent, provides a good source of protein thanks to the chicken and bacon. The heavy cream and cheese contribute to its richness, so it's best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you're watching your calorie intake.

To make it a bit healthier, consider using whole wheat pasta or reducing the amount of heavy cream by substituting with Greek yogurt. This way, you can still enjoy the creamy texture while making it a bit lighter without sacrificing flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape you prefer will work well in this recipe.

→ Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

You can use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and light ranch dressing to reduce calories.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.