Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Pasta

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Penne Pasta is a creamy, cheesy, and flavor-packed dish that combines smoky bacon, tender chicken, and a rich ranch-infused sauce for the ultimate comfort meal.

Servings:

Ingredients

For the Pasta

12 oz penne pasta uncooked
2 cups cooked chicken diced or shredded
6 slices bacon chopped
2 cups broccoli florets optional

For the Sauce

2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups milk whole or 2% preferred
1/2 cup heavy cream can substitute more milk
1/2 cup parmesan cheese grated
1/4 cup ranch dressing
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt

For Garnish

fresh parsley chopped, optional

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions. If using broccoli, add it to the boiling water for the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the skillet for extra flavor.
If you’re using raw chicken, season with salt and pepper, then cook in the same skillet with the bacon grease until fully cooked (about 5-6 minutes per side). Remove and dice or shred. If using pre-cooked chicken, simply dice or shred it and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in milk and cream, stirring constantly until smooth and slightly thickened (about 3-4 minutes).
Stir in Parmesan cheese, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, broccoli (if using), and half of the crumbled bacon to the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley if desired.