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–+ servings
A bowl of creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Pasta topped with fresh parsley and crispy bacon bits.

Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne

A creamy and flavorful pasta dish with chicken, bacon, and ranch.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 1 pound penne pasta
For the Chicken and Bacon
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 6 slices bacon cooked and crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Ranch Sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Optional Garnishes
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream, ranch dressing, milk, and garlic powder. Whisk to combine. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
  4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
  5. Add the cooked penne pasta and cooked chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
  6. Serve immediately, topped with crumbled bacon and chopped fresh parsley, if desired.

Notes

You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if you prefer. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

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