Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the definition of cozy, flavor-packed comfort food. Cooking the chicken in reserved bacon drippings layers in smoky depth, while the homemade ranch Alfredo sauce tastes brighter and fresher than anything from a jar. Using half-and-half keeps the sauce luxuriously creamy without weighing it down.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Ingredients
- Uncooked pasta (rotini or similar) – 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: Crisp the Bacon
In a large skillet over low heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Transfer to a plate to cool, then chop roughly. Carefully pour the bacon drippings into a small bowl and wipe out the skillet.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Slice the chicken into thin strips and pat dry. Season with onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of the reserved bacon drippings in the skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Rest for 5 minutes, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Prepare the Pasta
Bring a pot of well-salted water to a boil. 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 cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Whisk in the flour and cook for another minute to form a roux. Gradually pour in the half-and-half, whisking constantly until smooth. Bring to a gentle simmer, lower the heat, then stir in the ranch seasoning. Add the cheddar cheese a little at a time, stirring until melted and creamy.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until coated. Stir in the chicken and warm through. Fold in the chopped bacon, saving some for garnish if you like. Serve hot and enjoy.
