Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

A Creamy, Flavor-Packed Comfort Dish

Introduction

If you love rich, creamy pasta dishes with bold flavors, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the perfect recipe for you! Packed with juicy rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, and a velvety homemade Alfredo sauce, this dish is the ultimate comfort meal. The combination of ranch seasoning and two types of cheese takes this pasta to the next level, making it a hit for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prepping. Plus, it’s easy to make with simple ingredients and minimal prep time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy – Using a rotisserie chicken saves time and effort.
  • Crowd-Pleaser – A dish loved by both kids and adults alike.
  • Creamy & Cheesy – The homemade Alfredo sauce makes it incredibly rich and indulgent.
  • Great for Meal Prep – This pasta reheats beautifully for leftovers.
  • Customizable – Easily swap ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients List

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta:

  • 4 slices bacon, diced
  • 1 rotisserie chicken, cut into chunks
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Ranch Seasoning Mix
  • 8 ounces rotini pasta
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh Italian parsley, chopped

Homemade Alfredo Sauce:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Medium skillet for cooking bacon
  • Saucepan for making Alfredo sauce
  • 9×9 baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Cooking spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prepare

Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly spray a 9×9 baking dish with nonstick spray.

2. Make the Alfredo Sauce

  • In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
  • Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes).
  • Gradually whisk in the heavy cream, whisking constantly for another 1-2 minutes.
  • Stir in the grated Parmesan and continue stirring until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).
  • Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.

3. Cook the Bacon

  • In a medium skillet, cook the diced bacon until crispy.
  • Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.

4. Prepare the Chicken

  • While the bacon is cooking, shred the rotisserie chicken and place it into a ziplock bag.
  • Add the ranch seasoning mix and shake until the chicken is well-coated.

5. Cook the Pasta

  • In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions.
  • Drain well and transfer to the prepared baking dish.

6. Assemble & Bake

  • Layer the cooked pasta with the seasoned chicken and Alfredo sauce.
  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
  • Add the crispy bacon.
  • Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Serve

  • Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

  • Protein Swap: Swap rotisserie chicken for grilled chicken, turkey, or shrimp.
  • Pasta Choice: Use penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta instead of rotini.
  • Cheese Variations: Try pepper jack, gouda, or provolone for a different cheese blend.
  • Add Veggies: Stir in broccoli, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra nutrition.
  • Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or jalapeños for a kick.

Storing & Reheating Leftovers

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezer: To freeze, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating:

  • Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.
  • Oven: Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes or until heated through.
  • Stovetop: Add a splash of milk or cream and heat over low until warmed.

Best Pairings for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Side Dishes:

  • Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up extra sauce.
  • Caesar Salad – A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness.
  • Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini work well.

Drinks:

  • White Wine – A buttery Chardonnay or crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce.
  • Iced Tea – A light, refreshing drink to balance the richness.
  • Lemonade – Adds a bright, citrusy contrast.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

Yes! If you’re short on time, a jarred Alfredo sauce works as a quick substitute.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check that your ranch seasoning and Alfredo sauce ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until heated through.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is a creamy, indulgent dish that’s guaranteed to be a family favorite. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something special for a potluck, this dish is sure to impress!

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