Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe

If you enjoy hearty comfort food with bold flavor, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. It combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch-seasoned sauce all tossed together with pasta for a satisfying meal that works for weeknights, potlucks, or meal prep. The best part about this recipe is its flexibility—use any short pasta shape, leftover rotisserie chicken, or even swap out the bacon for turkey bacon if desired.

 

Why This Recipe Works

There are countless chicken pasta recipes available, but what sets this one apart is the balance of smoky bacon, tangy ranch seasoning, and rich cream sauce. Ranch seasoning acts as a shortcut for herbs like dill, parsley, garlic, and onion powder, giving depth to the sauce without the need for measuring multiple spices. The bacon provides texture and saltiness, while the chicken keeps it protein-rich. When tossed with pasta, everything melds into a rich dish that tastes like something you would get from a casual restaurant—yet it can be made in under 40 minutes from start to finish.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces uncooked pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work best)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (grilled, baked, or rotisserie)
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk or half-and-half
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Once cooled, crumble into small pieces.
3. In the same skillet or in a clean saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for one minute.
4. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce.
5. Add the ranch seasoning, black pepper, and paprika if using. Stir until fully incorporated.
6. Reduce heat to low and add the cheddar and parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy.
7. Fold in the cooked chicken and half of the bacon pieces. Let the mixture warm through for two to three minutes.
8. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until all pieces are fully coated.
9. Serve immediately, topping with the remaining bacon and a sprinkle of parsley or green onions.

Baked Casserole Variation

If you prefer a baked version, transfer the combined pasta and sauce into a greased baking dish. Top with extra cheddar cheese and reserved bacon. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. This version holds well for gatherings and reheats easily.

Substitutions and Additions

• Chicken: Replace with turkey, sausage, or even leftover ham.
• Bacon: Use turkey bacon or omit entirely for a lighter meal.
• Vegetables: Stir in steamed broccoli, peas, spinach, or diced bell peppers.
• Cheese: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or pepper jack.
• Ranch: Use homemade ranch seasoning if you avoid packaged mixes.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for three to four days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the dairy-based sauce, which may separate once thawed, but the baked casserole version freezes slightly better.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is filling enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, serve alongside steamed broccoli or sautéed zucchini. If preparing for a gathering, it makes an excellent addition to a potluck or buffet table since it stays creamy for long periods.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the kind of dish that satisfies a craving for something rich and comforting without requiring complicated techniques. It offers the flavor of a restaurant takeout favorite but can be customized to your household’s preferences. From classic skillet style to baked casserole form, it is a versatile recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation. Whether you prepare it for a busy weeknight or a crowd of guests, the result is consistently satisfying—a reliable mix of creamy, savory, and hearty flavor in every bite.

Edit This Article