Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
A creamy and flavorful Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta that's perfect for a quick family meal.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Skillet
- 1 Colander
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded You can substitute with rotisserie chicken.
- 4 strips bacon Cook until crispy.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup green onions, sliced Garnish before serving.
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder Optional.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley Optional.
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions in a large pot of salted boiling water. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and place on paper towels to drain. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the shredded chicken and toss to warm it through. If using, sprinkle the garlic powder and mix well.
- Pour in the heavy cream and ranch dressing into the skillet with the chicken. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and crumbled bacon back into the skillet. Let simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften.
- Stir in the cooked pasta and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Season with salt, pepper, and dried parsley. Adjust seasonings to taste.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Notes
You can substitute the cooked chicken with rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.