If you’re looking for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner, our Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe is perfect for you! This dish combines juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce over pasta, making it an irresistible comfort food. It’s easy to prepare and is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
– 8 oz rotini pasta
– 1 lb chicken breast, cooked and sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup ranch dressing
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with an additional cooking time of 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately:
– Calories: 550
– Protein: 35g
– Fat: 30g
– Carbohydrates: 45g
– Fiber: 2g
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced chicken and sauté until heated through.
- Reduce heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken.
- Pour in the ranch dressing and stir until well combined.
- Add the crumbled bacon and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and cover until melted.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy your creamy pasta dish!
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the chicken with turkey or shrimp, and use Greek yogurt instead of ranch dressing for a healthier option. Gluten-free pasta can also be used for a gluten-free version.
Serving and Pairings
This dish pairs wonderfully with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the pasta can make it mushy; always follow cooking times.
- Not letting the cheese melt properly can result in a clumpy sauce.
- Adding too much ranch dressing can overpower the dish; start with less.
- Skipping the bacon will reduce flavor; use a good quality bacon.
- Failing to season properly can lead to blandness; taste and adjust as needed.
Helpful Tips
- Cook the pasta in salted water for added flavor.
- Use leftovers for meal prepping; it’s great reheated!
- Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor profiles.
- Add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer! Penne or fusilli work well too. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! The creamy ranch flavor and crispy bacon are usually a hit with kids.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just store it in the fridge in an airtight container.
What can I serve it with?
This pasta dish pairs nicely with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I add more proteins?
Yes, you can add shrimp, sausage, or even vegetables like chickpeas for extra protein options.
Conclusion
Our Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for any night of the week. Its creamy texture, combined with the crunch of bacon and the tender chicken, makes it a meal to remember. Enjoy this comforting pasta dish with family and friends!

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast cooked and sliced
- 6 slices of bacon cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup green onions chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and crumble.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced chicken and sauté until heated through.
- Reduce heat and add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken.
- Pour in the ranch dressing and stir until well combined.
- Add the crumbled bacon and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix thoroughly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with the remaining cheddar cheese and cover until melted.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley before serving.
- Serve warm and enjoy your creamy pasta dish!