# Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Recipe
## Introduction
Looking for a dish that is rich, flavorful, and sure to impress? This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta delivers! It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that combines juicy chicken, crisp bacon, and creamy ranch sauce. Enjoy it as a hearty main course for a dinner that won’t disappoint.
## Why Make This Recipe
Pasta is the quintessential comfort food and this recipe takes comfort to a new level by adding the divine combination of chicken, bacon, and ranch. Not only is it quite filling, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal on your table in 40 minutes!
## How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
Making this pasta dish is fairly straightforward. All you need to do is cook the pasta, cook the bacon and chicken, prepare the sauce, and combine all the ingredients.
### Ingredients:
– 1 lb pasta (penne or rotini works great)
– 1 lb chicken breast, diced
– 6 slices bacon, chopped
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped parsley, for garnish
### Directions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
3. Remove bacon and set aside but keep the drippings in the skillet.
4. In the same skillet, add the diced chicken. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until golden.
5. If needed, add olive oil, then pour in heavy cream and ranch seasoning mix.
6. Stir and bring to a simmer, then add shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth.
7. Now, combine the cooked pasta, bacon, and chicken in the skillet. Toss well to blend all ingredients.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
## How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This pasta dish is best served hot. Sprinkle some extra cheese on top, if you desire. You can serve this pasta as a standalone dish or pair it with some garlic bread or a fresh salad.
## How to Store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
To store, place your leftover pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It should last for up to 3 to 5 days.
## Tips to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
1. Make sure to use a large, deep skillet- it will make it easier to mix everything together.
2. For a healthier version, you can use whole grain pasta and substitute heavy cream with a low fat option.
3. To make it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
## Variation
You can also make this dish with turkey bacon or add some vegetables for some extra crunch and flavor.
## FAQs
1. **Can I use a different type of pasta?** Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer.
2. **What can I replace the ranch seasoning mix with?** If you don’t have a ranch seasoning mix, you can use a combination of dried parsley, dried dill, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. **Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?** Yes, you can prepare the pasta and ranch sauce beforehand and combine them when ready to serve.