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Sweet and Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Sweet and Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
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Sweet and Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a comforting and indulgent dish combining tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a luscious ranch-infused creamy sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This quick and family-friendly meal delivers a rich balance of sweet, savory, and creamy flavors, making it an ideal weeknight favorite that’s easy to customize and satisfying to eat.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 chicken breasts, diced
  • 6 slices bacon, chopped

Pasta

  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta

Sauce

  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • ½ to ¾ cup milk or cream
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

Garnish

  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, chopped

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Chicken and Bacon: In a skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels. In the remaining bacon fat, sauté diced chicken seasoned with garlic powder and onion powder until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce: In a separate saucepan, combine ranch dressing and milk or cream. Gently heat and stir until smooth and warmed through. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated. Adjust the sauce consistency with additional milk if needed.
  4. Combine Everything: Return the cooked pasta to the skillet with the chicken and bacon. Pour the creamy ranch sauce over the mixture and toss gently to combine and heat through for 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or chives over the top just before serving to add brightness and color. Serve hot and creamy.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to help the sauce blend smoothly without curdling.
  • Don’t overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Reserve a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
  • Cook bacon separately to maximize crispness and reduce excess grease.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end to brighten and lift the creamy flavors.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken bacon ranch pasta, creamy chicken pasta, ranch dressing recipe, easy pasta dishes, weeknight dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://recipesemilly.com/sweet-and-creamy-chicken-bacon-ranch-pasta/