Ingredients:

1 lb penne  pasta

2 cups shredded cooked chicken

1 packet ranch seasoning mix

8 oz  cream cheese, softened

1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

3/4 cup bacon, cooked and chopped

1/2 cup chicken broth

1/2 cup heavy cream

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until translucent.

Reduce heat to low, add cream cheese and ranch seasoning mix, stirring until smooth and creamy.

Gradually pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring continuously until the sauce is well combined.

Add shredded chicken, half of the cooked bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese to the skillet, stirring until the cheese is melted and the ingredients are well mixed.

Combine the cooked penne with the creamy chicken mixture, mixing thoroughly.

Garnish with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Here are some tips and variations for your Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta recipe:

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Tips:

1. Perfect Pasta:
   • Cook the pasta al dente to ensure it doesn’t become mushy when mixed with the sauce. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water in case you need to thin the sauce.
2. Ranch Seasoning Control:
   • Start with half the packet of ranch seasoning, taste, and adjust to avoid overpowering the dish.
3. Smooth Sauce:
   • Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before adding it to the skillet for easier blending.
4. Cheese Melting Tip:
   • Shred the cheddar from a block instead of using pre-shredded cheese for better melting and flavor.
5. Make Ahead:
   • Prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta.
6. Reheating:
   • Reheat leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth, cream, or milk to revive the creamy texture.

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Variations:

Flavor Twists:

1. Spicy Kick:
   • Add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy version.
2. Herb Boost:
   • Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian seasoning or fresh chopped basil for extra flavor.
3. BBQ Ranch:
   • Stir in 2–3 tablespoons of BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy variation.

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Protein Variations:

1. Turkey Substitute:
   • Replace chicken with shredded turkey for a great way to use leftovers.
2. Vegetarian Option:
   • Skip the chicken and bacon, and add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers.
3. Seafood Swap:
   • Use cooked shrimp or crab meat instead of chicken for a seafood twist.

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Cheese and Bacon Options:

1. Cheese Swap:
   • Try smoked gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack cheese for different flavor profiles.
2. Bacon Alternatives:
   • Use turkey bacon or pancetta for a lighter or gourmet touch.

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Lighter Version:

1. Cream Alternatives:
   • Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or unsweetened almond milk for fewer calories.
2. Reduce Fat:
   • Use reduced-fat cream cheese and cheddar cheese.

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These tips and variations allow you to customize the dish to your taste or dietary needs while keeping it delicious and satisfying!