Introduction:
When you need a dinner that feels like a warm hug—and you need it fast—Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta always delivers.
It’s creamy, savory, cheesy, and packed with bold flavors: tender chicken, crispy bacon, and that classic ranch seasoning that makes
everything taste more crave-worthy. This is the kind of meal that turns an ordinary weeknight into “seconds, please” night.
The reason this recipe is so popular is simple: it’s built on familiar, crowd-pleasing flavors. Ranch brings tang and herbs, bacon adds
smoky crunch, and chicken keeps it hearty. Add pasta to soak up a silky sauce, and you’ve got a dish that hits every comfort-food note
without requiring complicated steps.
Below you’ll find a reliable, from-scratch version that tastes like restaurant pasta, plus easy shortcuts if you’re using rotisserie chicken,
pre-cooked bacon, or bottled ranch. You’ll also get variations (spicy, extra cheesy, veggie-loaded), storage and reheating tips, and
everything you need to make this recipe a repeat favorite.
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne, rotini, bowties, or shells)
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (about 2 large breasts or rotisserie chicken)
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480 ml) milk (or half-and-half for richer sauce)
- 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth (helps keep sauce silky)
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded mozzarella (optional but great)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or 2–3 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Add-Ins
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (for a little heat)
- 1 cup broccoli florets (steam or blanch first)
- 1 cup spinach (stir in at the end)
- 1/2 cup corn (adds sweetness)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or drained canned)
- Green onions or parsley for garnish
