Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Name: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz penne pasta; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 cup ranch dressing; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup diced green onions

Highlighted under: Cozy Cravings Kitchen

A creamy and delicious pasta dish loaded with chicken, crispy bacon, and a flavorful ranch dressing.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-01T17:10:30.982Z

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal for gatherings.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy ranch flavor that brings everything together
Crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch
Quick and easy, ready in under 40 minutes

      

A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Its creamy texture and savory flavors create a satisfying meal that everyone will love. Whether you're cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for those hectic days when time is of the essence.

The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and rich ranch dressing elevates this pasta dish beyond ordinary. It’s a delightful fusion of flavors that creates a comforting experience with every bite. Serve it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is its versatility. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary restrictions. You can easily swap out the penne pasta for your favorite type, such as rotini or farfalle, and even use whole wheat or gluten-free options if desired.

Additionally, you can enhance the dish by adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for an extra nutritional boost. This adaptability allows you to reinvent the dish each time you make it, ensuring it never gets boring and always meets your family's tastes.

Perfect for Meal Prep

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is not only quick to make but also an excellent option for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch at once and store individual portions in the refrigerator for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. This makes it a fantastic choice for those who are busy but still want to enjoy home-cooked meals.

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dish can last up to four days in the fridge. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk or extra ranch dressing to keep it creamy. This convenience ensures that you can enjoy a delicious, hearty meal without the hassle of cooking every day.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

8 oz penne pasta
1 lb chicken breast, diced
4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup ranch dressing
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup diced green onions

Make sure to have everything ready before starting to cook.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta, ranch dressing, crumbled bacon, and cheddar cheese to the skillet with chicken. Stir until well combined and heated through.

Garnish and Serve

Top with diced green onions and additional cheese if desired. Serve warm.

Enjoy your delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta!

Storage Tips

To maintain the freshness of your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta, it's essential to store it correctly. After cooking, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Always refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to go.

If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions. This allows you to enjoy the dish weeks later. Just ensure to use freezer-safe containers or bags, and label them with the date. When you're ready to enjoy your frozen pasta, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra ranch dressing if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta with a refreshing side salad or some grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A light Caesar or garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta beautifully. You could also serve it with garlic bread for a comforting, indulgent dining experience.

For those looking to elevate the dish even further, consider garnishing it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil. These herbs not only add a pop of color but also enhance the overall flavor profile, making each bite even more delightful.

Nutritional Information

While Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a delicious comfort food, it's also important to be mindful of its nutritional content. This dish contains protein from the chicken and bacon, as well as carbohydrates from the pasta. To make it healthier, consider using lean chicken breast and turkey bacon, which can reduce the overall fat content.

Additionally, using a low-fat ranch dressing or even making your own can help control the calories. Incorporating more vegetables can also boost the nutritional value, adding fiber and essential vitamins. With a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy this hearty dish while keeping it balanced.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

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

→ How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cheese and ranch dressing.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Spinach, bell peppers, or broccoli would make great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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