Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Who doesn’t love a warm, creamy, and savory dish that brings comfort with every bite? Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is one of those meals that hits all the right notes. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying—a true comfort food classic.

This dish combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a meal that’s not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients Needed:

• 2 cups cooked pasta (such as penne or rotini)
• 2 cups cooked chicken, diced
• 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)

Step-By-Step Instructions:

STEP 1. Over medium heat, warm olive oil in a large skillet.

STEP 2. Then add the diced chicken and cook until heated through, about 3-4 minutes.

STEP 3. Mix in the ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, salt, and pepper.

STEP 4. Add the cooked pasta and crumbled bacon to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.

STEP 5. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese and Parmesan cheese over the pasta, stirring until melted and well combined.

STEP 6. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

To savor your leftovers later, make sure to store them properly.

• Storage: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to prevent the sauce from drying out.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a basic nutritional breakdown for a standard serving:

• Calories: 600-800 per serving.
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 35-45g
• Carbohydrates: 50-60g

For a healthier version, use whole wheat pasta, reduce the amount of cheese, and add more vegetables.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken can be a time-saver. Just be sure to warm it through before combining it with the other ingredients.

2. What’s the best way to make it spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to the ranch sauce for a spicy kick.

3. Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta?

Yes, you can freeze them for up to 2 months in an airtight container.

4. How can I make this dish healthier?

Use whole wheat pasta, reduce the cheese, and add extra vegetables to lighten up the dish.

5. Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Absolutely! Replace the chicken with tofu and use vegetarian bacon for a meat-free version.