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Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

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This Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor! With tender chicken, crispy bacon, pasta, and a creamy ranch sauce, this dish is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep. A family favorite that’s ready in just 35 minutes!

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

✅ 12 oz (340g) penne pasta (or your favorite pasta shape)

For the Sauce:

✅ 1 tbsp olive oil
✅ 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
✅ ½ tsp garlic powder
✅ ½ tsp onion powder
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ ½ tsp black pepper
✅ 6 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and chopped
✅ 2 cups (480ml) heavy cream
✅ ½ cup (120ml) milk
✅ 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
✅ 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
✅ ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese

Optional Garnishes:

✅ Chopped parsley
✅ Extra shredded cheese

Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  • Drain and set aside.

2️⃣ Cook the Chicken:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add diced chicken and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  • Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned.
  • Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

3️⃣ Prepare the Bacon:

  • In the same skillet, cook the bacon until crispy.
  • Remove the bacon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate. Chop into bite-sized pieces.

4️⃣ Make the Ranch Sauce:

  • Lower the heat to medium and add heavy cream and milk to the skillet. Stir to combine.
  • Sprinkle in the ranch seasoning mix and stir until dissolved.
  • Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken slightly.

5️⃣ Combine Everything:

  • Return the cooked chicken and half of the bacon to the skillet. Stir to coat.
  • Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated in the sauce.

6️⃣ Add the Cheese:

  • Stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.

7️⃣ Serve:

  • Top with the remaining bacon bits and garnish with parsley or extra cheese if desired.
  • Serve warm and enjoy!

Notes

  • Don’t overcook pasta: Cook it al dente so it holds up well in the sauce.
  • Fresh cheese melts best: Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.
  • Storage:
    • Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
    • Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.