Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
A quick and creamy one-skillet dish featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a flavorful ranch dressing mixed with pasta and cheese.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or rotini)
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cooked and cubed You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled Crisp the bacon for better texture.
- 1 cup ranch dressing Use your favorite ranch dressing brand.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a blend) For extra creaminess, mix in a few ounces of cream cheese.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Use for sautéing.
- to taste salt and pepper
- to taste chopped green onions or parsley for garnish Adds freshness to the dish.
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken and bacon, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the ranch dressing and bring to a simmer.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat everything with the sauce.
- Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve garnished with chopped green onions or parsley.
Serving
- Serve hot straight from the skillet or transfer to a baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Add a sprinkle of extra cheese and fresh herbs right before serving for color.
Notes
Cool the pasta to room temperature, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.