Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is pure comfort food packed with bold flavor. Cooking the chicken in the reserved bacon drippings infuses every bite with smoky goodness, while the homemade ranch Alfredo sauce delivers a fresher, more vibrant taste than anything store-bought. Using half-and-half keeps the sauce rich and creamy without feeling too heavy.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients
- Uncooked pasta (such as rotini) – 2 cups
- Shredded cheddar cheese – 2 cups
- Half-and-half – 2 cups
- Bacon strips – 6
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts – 2 small
- Butter – 2 tablespoons
- Flour – 2 tablespoons
- Dry ranch seasoning mix – 2 tablespoons
- Minced garlic – 1 tablespoon
- Onion powder – 1 teaspoon
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Salt and black pepper – to taste
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside to cool, then roughly chop. Carefully reserve the bacon drippings in a small bowl and wipe out the skillet.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Slice the chicken into thin strips, pat dry, and season with onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of the reserved bacon drippings in the skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Let rest for 5 minutes, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Ranch Alfredo Sauce
Melt the butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux. Slowly add the half-and-half, stirring constantly until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Stir in the ranch seasoning and gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted and creamy.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Stir in the chicken and heat through. Fold in the chopped bacon, reserving some for garnish if desired. Serve immediately.
