Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a creamy, delicious meal that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and flavorful ranch seasoning tossed together with pasta. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that's sure to please the whole family.
Equipment
- 1 large pot
- 1 colander
- 1 skillet
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, diced You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish Optional
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the crumbled bacon until crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
- In the same skillet, add the cooked chicken and sauté for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Reduce heat to low and pour in the ranch dressing and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add the garlic powder and black pepper.
- Stir in the cooked pasta, shredded cheddar cheese, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix until the pasta is well coated and the cheese is melted.
- Add the crumbled bacon to the pasta and stir gently to combine.
- Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
You can use rotisserie chicken to save time.
Feel free to customize by adding vegetables like broccoli or spinach for added nutrition.
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the microwave.