12 oz pasta (penne, rotini, or shells)

2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded (rotisserie works great)

6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

2 tbsp butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tbsp all-purpose flour

2 cups milk (whole or 2%)

1 cup chicken broth

1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or 2-3 tbsp homemade ranch seasoning)

2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar-jack blend)

4 oz cream cheese, cubed (for extra creaminess)

Salt & black pepper, to taste

2 tbsp chopped parsley or green onions (optional garnish)

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Cook pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

Start the sauce: In a large skillet or pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Make a roux: Sprinkle in flour and whisk for 1 minute.

Add liquids: Slowly whisk in milk and chicken broth. Simmer 3–5 minutes, whisking often, until slightly thickened.

Season + melt cheese: Stir in ranch seasoning and cream cheese until smooth. Add cheddar cheese and stir until melted.

Combine: Add cooked chicken, bacon, and drained pasta. Toss until coated. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen.

Serve: Taste and adjust salt/pepper. Garnish with parsley or green onions.

Cooking Tips

Don’t overcook the pasta: Keep it al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy in the sauce.
Reserve pasta water: It helps the sauce cling and smooth out if it thickens too much.
Use rotisserie chicken: Saves time and adds great flavor.
Shred your own cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can make sauces grainy due to anti-caking agents.

Variations

Spicy: Add ½ tsp cayenne, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce.
Veggie boost: Stir in peas, broccoli, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms.
Extra cheesy bake: Pour into a baking dish, top with more cheese + bacon, and broil 2–3 minutes.
Lighter: Use light cream cheese, turkey bacon, and reduce cheese to 1½ cups.
Buffalo ranch: Add ¼–⅓ cup buffalo sauce for a tangy kick.
One-pot method: Cook pasta in broth/water mixture, then build the sauce right in the same pot (less cleanup).