Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Step 1

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the pasta.

Step 2

Cook the pasta to al dente according to the package instructions.

Step 3

Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.

Step 4

While the pasta cooks, in a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the bacon until browned, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 5

Transfer the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set it on a paper-towel-lined plate to drain.

Step 6

In the same skillet, cook the onion in the bacon grease until softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 7

Add the chicken to the cooked onion and cook until an instant thermometer inserted in the center reads 165 degrees F, about 5-8 minutes.

Step 8

Add the dry ranch seasoning, the garlic, the salt, and the pepper to the cooked chicken and cook, about 1 minute.

Step 9

Stir the flour into the chicken mixture and cook until it is thoroughly blended and no white remains.

Step 10

Lower the temperature to medium heat.

Step 11

Add the chicken broth and the cream to the chicken mixture, cooking and stirring until thickened.

Step 12

Add the cooked pasta and the cooked bacon to the chicken mixture.

Step 13

Add the reserved pasta water, as much as needed to ensure the sauce comes together.

Step 14

Toss the chicken and pasta mixture until thoroughly combined.

Step 15

Serve.