Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate weeknight comfort dish—tender rotini coated in a creamy, ranch-seasoned cheese sauce, tossed with crispy bacon and juicy rotisserie chicken. It’s hearty, satisfying, and ready in just 30 minutes—perfect for those nights when you want something homemade without the hassle.
If you love easy, creamy pasta recipes, try my Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta next!
📝 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Bacon (cut into small pieces) | 6 strips |
| Dry rotini pasta | 3 cups |
| Butter | 2 tablespoons |
| Onion (diced) | 1 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| All-purpose flour | 3 tablespoons |
| Whole milk | 3 cups |
| Cream cheese (cubed) | 4 ounces |
| Dry ranch seasoning | 2 tablespoons |
| Rotisserie chicken (diced) | 2 cups |
| Shredded cheddar cheese | 2 cups |
| Red pepper flakes (optional) | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Crisp the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until crispy (about 8–10 minutes). Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
3. Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce heat to medium. Carefully drain excess bacon grease, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan. Add the butter and let it melt.
Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Make the Sauce
Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes to form a roux. Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly until smooth.
Bring to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat to medium-low. Add the cream cheese and stir until fully melted and the sauce thickens.
5. Add the Flavor & Cheese
Whisk in the ranch seasoning and half of the shredded cheddar until smooth and creamy.
6. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta, diced chicken, crispy bacon, and remaining cheese. Stir everything together and let simmer for 2–3 minutes, until heated through and well combined.
7. Garnish & Serve
Top with chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
🔄 Tips & Variations
- Swap rotini for penne, shells, or elbow macaroni.
- Add steamed broccoli, peas, or spinach for extra color and nutrition.
- Try Monterey Jack or Colby cheese for a milder, creamier flavor.
- For a baked version, transfer to a casserole dish, top with extra cheese, and broil until bubbly and golden.
