Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta
A creamy, savory pasta dish that blends chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Pasta Base
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rotini) Choose your favorite type.
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded Store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled Turkey bacon can be used for a lighter option.
- 1 cup ranch dressing Homemade or store-bought.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Sharp cheddar adds depth of flavor.
- 1 cup frozen peas Fresh peas can be used if preferred.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Bacon grease can be used for more flavor.
- Salt and pepper To taste.
- Chopped chives or parsley For garnish.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain.
Cooking the Bacon
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy. Remove, drain on paper towels, and crumble when cooled, saving some drippings in the pan.
Combine Ingredients
- In the pot with the drained pasta (off the heat), combine the cooked chicken, ranch dressing, and peas.
Finish the Dish
- Stir in the cheddar cheese and incorporate either bacon grease or olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve
- Plate the pasta, then top with the crumbled bacon and chopped herbs for garnish.
Notes
This dish can be customized with whole wheat pasta, Greek yogurt for ranch, or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Great for meal prep and leftovers.