Hey y'all! If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful meal that’ll please even the pickiest eaters, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot recipe is a true winner. Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with savory bacon and tender chicken, it’s comfort food that comes together quickly—no mountain of dishes required! Whether you need a cozy weeknight dinner or a hearty dish for a family gathering, this pasta delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Let’s get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot
- All cooked in one pot for super easy cleanup.
- Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Creamy ranch sauce with crispy bacon and juicy chicken for unbeatable flavor.
- Family-friendly and easily customizable with your favorite veggies or cheese.
- Leftovers taste just as delicious the next day!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 ounces penne pasta (or rotini)
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk (preferably whole or 2%)
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot
Step 1: Brown the Chicken and Bacon
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the pot.
- Cook chicken until lightly browned, about 3-4 minutes (it doesn't need to be cooked through). Remove to a plate and set aside.
- Add the chopped bacon to the pot. Cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving about 1 tablespoon bacon fat in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
- Add minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Return the chicken to the pot. Add pasta, chicken broth, and milk. Stir well and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 12-14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and most liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Add Ranch and Cheese
- Stir in ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan. Mix until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Fold in the crispy bacon and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture!
Notes for Perfect Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot
- Use freshly shredded cheese for an extra smooth, melty sauce that won’t clump (grating your own cheese).
- Keep the heat on low after adding dairy to prevent curdling.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth to loosen it up.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño with the garlic.
- Veggie-Loaded: Stir in 1 cup of steamed broccoli or peas before serving.
- Gluten-Free: Swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta—just watch the cook time.
Required Equipment for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot
- Large Dutch oven or deep skillet (with lid)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife and cutting board
Storage Instructions for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk to keep it creamy. Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate.
Serving Recommendations for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Serve with garlic bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Top with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of black pepper for a flavor boost.
Pro Tips for the Best Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot
- Let the pasta rest for 5 minutes before serving so the sauce thickens to perfection (pasta cooking tips).
- Use rotisserie chicken for a speedy shortcut on busy nights.
- Reserve a bit of bacon to sprinkle on top for a crispy finish.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta?
- Absolutely! Rotini, shells, or fusilli all work well. Adjust the cook time as needed.
- Is there a lighter version of this recipe?
- Yes! Use turkey bacon, reduced-fat cheese, and low-fat milk for a lighter spin (healthy eating tips).
- Can I make this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot ahead of time?
- You can make it up to 2 days in advance—just store it covered in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Give this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta One Pot a try, and you'll have a creamy, cozy meal in no time—happy cooking!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
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1In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.
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2Add the diced chicken breast to the pot and cook until lightly browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
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3Stir in the penne pasta, chicken broth, heavy cream, and ranch seasoning mix. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
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4Cover and cook for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
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5Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cooked bacon. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Cook for 2 more minutes until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
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6Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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