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Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta – A Cozy, Cheesy Family Favorite

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A rich, creamy pasta dish featuring tender chicken, crispy bacon, ranch-seasoned cream sauce, and melty cheddar cheese—perfect for cozy dinners or easy family meals.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 12 oz penne or rotini pasta

  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed

  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped

  • 1 (1 oz) packet ranch seasoning mix

  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened

  • 1 cup heavy cream

  • 1½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • ½ tsp onion powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

  • ½ cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

  • Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

  • In a skillet, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and drain, reserving 1 tbsp bacon fat.

  • Sauté chicken in bacon fat with salt, pepper, and garlic powder until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

  • In the skillet, reduce heat and add cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until melted and smooth.

  • Add ranch seasoning, onion powder, and half of the cheddar. Stir until cheese melts.

  • Add cooked pasta, chicken, and half the bacon. Stir to coat. Add pasta water to loosen if needed.

  • Top with remaining cheese and bacon. Broil for 3–5 minutes for a bubbly top (optional).

  • Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

  • For extra vegetables, add spinach or peas.

  • Turkey bacon or gluten-free pasta work well for dietary needs.

  • Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days; reheat with cream or broth.

Find it online: https://besthomeflavors.com/creamy-chicken-bacon-ranch-pasta-a-cozy-cheesy-family-favorite/