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One-Pan Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that combines rich flavors and creamy textures in a single, easy-to-make dish. Perfect for busy families, this recipe brings together tender chicken, crispy bacon, and al dente pasta all enveloped in a luscious sauce, making it a favorite at the dinner table.

One-Pan Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Looking for an easy weeknight dinner thats both comforting and flavorful? This One-Pan Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta checks all the boxes! With tender chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch sauce, it brings together rich flavors in a snap—perfect for busy families. Plus, it all cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Try it tonight and enjoy a delightful meal everyone will love. Save this recipe for your next family dinner!

Ingredients
  

12 oz penne pasta

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces

4 slices of bacon, chopped into small pieces

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

1 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup baby spinach

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil (if necessary)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and transfer it to a plate, leaving the delicious drippings in the skillet.

    Sear the Chicken: If there isn't enough drippings in the skillet, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add the diced chicken to the skillet, spreading it out evenly. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it onto the plate with the bacon.

      Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet with the remaining drippings, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently, until it's fragrant.

        Add the Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the penne pasta into the broth, stirring to combine. Cover the skillet and cook according to the package directions, typically about 10-12 minutes, until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

          Make it Creamy: After the pasta is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and add the ranch dressing mix. Stir well to combine, ensuring the ranch is evenly distributed throughout the creamy sauce.

            Combine Everything: Gently fold the chicken back into the skillet along with the crispy bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and baby spinach. Stir everything together until the spinach wilts and everything is heated through, about 2-3 minutes.

              Cheesy Finish: Remove the skillet from heat and add the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the mixture is creamy and luxurious. Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

                Serve: Serve the creamy chicken bacon ranch pasta warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy this comforting one-pan meal with your loved ones!

                  Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4