Creamy Comfort

⭐ Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Skillet

.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

📝 Ingredients

For the Chicken & Bacon:

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 lb chicken breast, diced

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 6 slices bacon, cooked & chopped

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz penne or rotini pasta

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup shredded parmesan

• 1 packet ranch seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade ranch mix)

• 1 tbsp minced garlic

• Optional: crushed red pepper

🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the bacon

• Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy.

• Remove, chop, and set aside.

• Leave 1–2 tbsp bacon grease in the skillet.

2. Cook the chicken

• Add butter to bacon grease.

• Season chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt & pepper.

• Sauté until golden and fully cooked (about 6–7 minutes).

• Add the minced garlic and cook 1 more minute.

3. Add pasta & liquids

• Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.

• Stir in ranch seasoning.

• Add the UNCOOKED pasta right into the skillet.

• Stir well and bring to a simmer.

4. Cover & cook

• Cover skillet and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender.

5. Make it creamy

• Reduce heat to low.

• Add cheddar and parmesan cheese.

• Stir until melted and creamy.

6. Add bacon

• Stir bacon back into the skillet.

• Taste and adjust seasoning.

7. Serve

• Top with extra cheese, bacon, and fresh parsley.

• Serve warm.

🍽 Best Tools for This Recipe

• Large nonstick skillet

• Silicone spatula

• Chef’s knife

• Cutting board

• Tongs

• Measuring cups

• Measuring spoons

FAQs

What is this dish?

It's a creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta skillet made in one pan.

How long to cook?

This skillet meal takes about 30 minutes from start to finish.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

Is it spicy?

No, the flavors are creamy and savory, not spicy at all.

What sides go well?

A simple green salad or steamed veggies complement it nicely.

Can I substitute ingredients?

Absolutely! Swap chicken for turkey or use a dairy-free cream for a twist.

This creamy chicken bacon ranch skillet is pure comfort in every bite—rich, flavorful, and so easy to make!

Amy B

★★★★★