Creamy Ranch Bacon Chicken Pasta: Easy One-Pan Recipe

Looking for a hearty and delicious meal that’s a breeze to make and requires minimal cleanup? Look no further than the mouthwatering One-Pan Creamy Ranch Bacon Chicken Pasta! This recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the hassle. The creamy ranch sauce, crispy bacon, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta all come together in one pan for a delightful dish that’s ready in just 30 minutes.

I stumbled upon this gem of a recipe last winter, and it has since become a staple in my kitchen. The aroma of sizzling bacon and savory chicken wafting through the house is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. This One-Pan Creamy Ranch Bacon Chicken Pasta is not just a hit with my family but also a potluck favorite among friends and neighbors. The combination of flavors in this dish is pure magic, making it a go-to option for any occasion.

To make this dish even more versatile, you can customize it to your liking by adding sautéed mushrooms, frozen peas, or experimenting with different types of cheese. Whether you’re serving it for a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this creamy and indulgent pasta is sure to impress. So grab your ingredients, get ready to enjoy a satisfying meal, and let the One-Pan Creamy Ranch Bacon Chicken Pasta become a star on your dining table!

Quick Benefits

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Minimal Cleanup: Cooked in one pan, reducing the number of dishes to wash afterwards.
• Indulgent Comfort Food: Creamy ranch sauce, bacon, and chicken create a rich and flavorful dish that is a hit with both picky eaters and food enthusiasts.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Ranch Bacon Chicken Pasta: Easy One-Pan Recipe Recipe

• Effortless Cooking: This recipe offers a hassle-free cooking experience, perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Indulgent Comfort Food: The creamy ranch sauce, crispy bacon, and tender chicken combine to create a comforting and indulgent dish that will satisfy your cravings.
• Minimal Cleanup: With only one pan required, cleanup is a breeze, making this recipe not only delicious but also convenient for those who want to minimize the post-cooking mess.
• Crowd-Pleasing Dish: This flavorful pasta has received rave reviews from picky eaters, neighbors, and potluck attendees, making it a reliable choice for gatherings or special occasions.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, frozen peas, or different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
• Make-Ahead Option: Perfect for meal prep, you can refrigerate this pasta for 3-4 days and simply reheat it with a splash of milk or cream, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to enjoy at any time.

Ingredients for Creamy Ranch Bacon Chicken Pasta: Easy One-Pan Recipe

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 2 chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups penne pasta, uncooked
• 6 slices bacon
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

How to Make Creamy Ranch Bacon Chicken Pasta: Easy One-Pan Recipe

Step 1: Cook the bacon

Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Crumble bacon once cooled. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan and discard the rest.

Step 2: Cook the chicken

In the same skillet with reserved bacon grease, cook diced chicken over medium-high heat with garlic powder and black pepper until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add pasta and liquids

Combine uncooked penne pasta, chicken, chicken broth, and heavy cream in a skillet. Simmer until pasta is cooked.

Step 4: Cook the pasta

Lower heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Add remaining ingredients

After the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese and ranch dressing until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Stir in crumbled bacon.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the cooked pasta. Serve hot from the skillet for a rustic look or transfer to a serving dish.

Storage Tips

Once you have prepared and enjoyed the one-pan creamy ranch bacon chicken pasta, it is important to store any leftovers properly to maintain their flavor and texture. Refrigerate the dish in an airtight container for 3-4 days. When reheating, consider adding a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to help revive the creamy sauce and prevent it from drying out.

It is not recommended to freeze the finished dish, as the texture of the pasta and cream-based sauce may become compromised upon thawing. When reheating, you can use either the stovetop or microwave. Heat the pasta dish gently, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming throughout. This flavorful and indulgent meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, and with proper storage and reheating techniques, you can continue to enjoy its delicious taste for a few days after it’s made.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier twist, you can make some ingredient substitutions in this recipe. To reduce the calorie content, you can swap the heavy cream for a lighter option like half-and-half or whole milk. This change will make the dish lighter without compromising too much on the creamy texture.

If you’re looking to add more veggies to the dish, consider incorporating sautéed mushrooms, broccoli florets, or spinach. You can mix and match these vegetables based on your preferences to enhance the nutritional value and add more color and texture to the pasta.

For a different flavor profile, you can experiment with different types of cheese. Swap the cheddar cheese for a tangy Parmesan or a smoky Gouda for a unique twist. Cheese plays a crucial role in the overall flavor, so feel free to try different varieties to elevate the dish according to your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try topping the one-pan creamy ranch bacon chicken pasta with crispy fried onions for an extra crunch and burst of flavor. The crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta, creating a delightful sensory experience.

Another serving idea is to garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving. This adds a pop of color and freshness, elevating the presentation and taste of the dish. Pair the pasta with a side of roasted cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and acidity that complements the creamy ranch sauce and savory bacon perfectly.

FAQs for Creamy Ranch Bacon Chicken Pasta: Easy One-Pan Recipe

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon in this recipe if you prefer a leaner option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the turkey bacon is cooked through.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

While penne pasta works well in this recipe, you can certainly use a different type of pasta such as fettuccine, bow tie, or rotini. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time according to the pasta shape you choose.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you prefer a spicier kick to the dish, you can add some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference to enhance the flavor profile.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this dish by omitting the chicken and bacon. Instead, consider adding more vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to enhance the flavor and texture of the creamy ranch pasta. You can also use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth.

Conclusion

In conclusion, One-Pan Creamy Ranch Bacon Chicken Pasta is a versatile and delightful dish that has quickly become a favorite in my home and among friends. Its rich and comforting flavors are sure to bring smiles to your loved ones’ faces and make your gatherings memorable. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite ingredients or try out different variations to suit your taste preferences.

I hope this recipe brings you as much joy and deliciousness as it has brought to me and my loved ones. Embrace the simplicity and heartiness of One-Pan Creamy Ranch Bacon Chicken Pasta, and let it become a staple in your kitchen for cozy weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Enjoy creating and savoring this mouthwatering dish!

Creamy Ranch Bacon Chicken Pasta: Easy One-Pan Recipe

“One-Pan Creamy Ranch Bacon Chicken Pasta: A decadent comfort meal with chicken, bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce cooked in 30 minutes.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time10 Minutes

Cook Time25 Minutes

Total Time35 Minutes

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings4 Servings (4 servings)

Ingredients

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing
• 2 chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups penne pasta, uncooked
• 6 slices bacon
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded

Instructions

1. Cook the bacon: Cook bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Crumble bacon once cooled. Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pan and discard the rest.
2. Cook the chicken: In the same skillet with reserved bacon grease, cook diced chicken over medium-high heat with garlic powder and black pepper until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add pasta and liquids: Combine uncooked penne pasta, chicken, chicken broth, and heavy cream in a skillet. Simmer until pasta is cooked.
4. Cook the pasta: Lower heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add remaining ingredients: After the pasta is cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese and ranch dressing until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth. Stir in crumbled bacon.
6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle the chopped green onions over the cooked pasta. Serve hot from the skillet for a rustic look or transfer to a serving dish.