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BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

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Jump to Recipe· 4.9 from 102 reviews

If you’re craving a hearty, flavor-packed dinner that’s also super simple to whip up, then you’re going to adore this BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe. It’s one of those meals that’s cozy enough for weeknights but impressive enough to bring out when friends come over. Trust me, once you try it, BBQ ranch chicken pasta bake becomes a go-to for busy nights and comforting dinners alike!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: You can assemble this dish in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Flavor Explosion: The BBQ sauce and ranch dressing create a tangy, creamy combo that makes every bite irresistible.
  • Leftover Friendly: I love that you can toss in leftover chicken or rotisserie for zero extra effort.
  • Family Favorite: My family goes crazy for this bake – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
The image shows a close-up of a spoonful of pasta salad being lifted, with bowtie-shaped pasta coated in a creamy, light orange sauce. Small pieces of red bits, possibly bacon or sun-dried tomatoes, and green herbs are mixed throughout, adding color and texture. The creamy sauce looks thick and smooth, with visible chunks of corn adding small pops of yellow. In the blurred background, more of the pasta salad fills a white bowl placed on a white marbled surface. A woman's hand holds the spoon, bringing the pasta salad into focus. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake, easy chicken pasta bake, cheesy BBQ pasta dish, quick weeknight dinners, flavorful pasta casserole this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe really comes from the balance of tangy, creamy, and smoky flavors working together — plus a few pantry staples that you can adjust to your liking. Here’s what you’ll want on hand.

Flat lay of a small pile of raw bowtie pasta, shredded cooked chicken breast mounded loosely, crispy chopped bacon pieces, a neat pile of shredded cheddar cheese blend, a small white bowl filled with bright yellow corn kernels, a small white bowl with red diced tomatoes and green chiles mixture, a small white bowl of creamy ranch dressing, a small white bowl of thick smoky BBQ sauce, and a small white bowl with finely minced white onions, all arranged symmetrically in a balanced composition on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997 - BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake, easy chicken pasta bake, cheesy BBQ pasta dish, quick weeknight dinners, flavorful pasta casserole
  • Bowtie pasta: I prefer bowties because they hold sauce well, but penne or rotini work just as beautifully.
  • Chicken breast: Using cooked, shredded chicken is a time saver — rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver here.
  • Bacon (chopped): Real crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch that imitation bacon just can’t replicate.
  • Cheddar cheese blend: A mix of sharp cheddar with mild cheeses melts perfectly and adds great flavor.
  • Canned corn: Drained corn adds sweet bursts of texture without fuss.
  • Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies): Adds a nice kick and moisture—leave it undrained as it blends into the sauce.
  • Diced green chiles: For a mild heat and subtle depth. These complement the ranch and BBQ sauce brilliantly.
  • Ranch dressing: The creamy, herby base that brings it all together.
  • BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite—sweet, smoky, or spicy—all work wonderfully.
  • Minced onions: Adds a subtle sharpness for depth of flavor.
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

I love that this BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is super adaptable—you can tweak it depending on what you have in your fridge or your taste preferences without losing that comforting vibe.

  • Swap the chicken: I’ve made this with shredded rotisserie chicken, leftover roast chicken, and even cooked turkey—it all works beautifully.
  • Make it vegetarian: Try swapping out the chicken and bacon for sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies for a veggie-packed twist.
  • Spicy kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce if you like a bit more heat; the whole family still adored the zing!
  • Cheese switch-up: Go for pepper jack or smoked gouda to elevate the flavors and give it a slightly different creamy texture.

How to Make BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Boil Your Pasta to Perfection

Start by cooking your bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until it’s just al dente—meaning it still has a nice bite and won’t get mushy in the oven. Drain it well and toss into a large bowl so you’re ready to mix up all the flavors.

Step 2: Combine the Flavor Bomb Ingredients

Into your pasta, add the shredded chicken, chopped real bacon pieces, your melty cheese blend, drained corn, undrained Rotel, diced green chiles, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, and minced onions. Toss everything gently but thoroughly. You’ll see how the colors and textures all come together—a real party in the bowl!

Step 3: Bake It Up

Transfer the mixture to a casserole dish. If you’re feeling extra cheesy, sprinkle some additional cheese on top. Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, until the casserole is bubbling hot and the cheese is melted and gooey—this step is what turns it into the warm, comforting bake you’ll keep coming back to.

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Pro Tips for Making BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

  • Don’t Overcook Pasta: I learned the hard way that overcooked pasta gets mushy after baking—aim for firm al dente and it will hold up perfectly.
  • Use Real Bacon: I used to use bacon bits but found that chopped crispy bacon adds a smoky crunch that really takes this dish over the top.
  • Mix Sauces Well: Toss everything in a big bowl before transferring to the bake dish to make sure every bite has that delicious BBQ ranch combo.
  • Let It Rest: After baking, let your dish sit for a few minutes before serving to thicken up and make slicing easier.

How to Serve BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

A large white baking dish full of baked pasta with several layers visible, starting with wide, flat pasta pieces at the bottom that have a light yellow color. On top of the pasta is a thick layer of melted cheese that is golden brown in some spots with crispy edges. Diced pieces of browned meat or bacon are spread evenly across the surface, adding small chunks of reddish-brown color. Green herb bits are scattered lightly over the top, giving a touch of color contrast. The texture looks soft and creamy underneath the crispy cheese topping. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake, easy chicken pasta bake, cheesy BBQ pasta dish, quick weeknight dinners, flavorful pasta casserole

Garnishes

I love topping this pasta bake with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions to add a fresh pop of color and mild onion flavor. Sometimes, I’ll add a little extra shredded cheese right before serving for gooey goodness that stretches with every bite.

Side Dishes

My go-to pairings are a simple crisp green salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness and some warm garlic bread to scoop and soak up every bit of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, I serve this in individual ramekins topped with extra cheese and broiled for a golden crust. It’s such a fun way to make a casual dish feel a little more fancy without extra work.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge and find they keep great for 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen, so I sometimes look forward to the leftovers even more than the original dinner!

Freezing

This bake freezes beautifully. Just portion into freezer-safe containers before baking or freeze leftovers. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, warm in the oven at 325°F covered with foil to keep it moist, or microwave on medium power stirring halfway through. Adding a splash of ranch or a little extra cheese helps refresh the creaminess.

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different type of pasta for the BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe?

    Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works best because it holds onto the sauce nicely, you can use penne, rotini, or even shells. Just make sure to cook it al dente so it doesn’t get mushy after baking.

  2. Can I make this recipe without bacon?

    Yes! You can omit the bacon altogether or substitute with cooked sausage or smoked turkey to keep that smoky flavor. For a vegetarian version, replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked paprika seasoning.

  3. Is BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe freezer-friendly?

    Definitely! This pasta bake freezes well both before and after baking. Just be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture perfect.

  4. Can I use homemade ranch or BBQ sauce in this recipe?

    Of course! Homemade ranch and BBQ sauce can add a personal touch and let you control flavors and sugar levels. Just make sure your sauces are well balanced in flavor to keep that classic BBQ ranch vibe.

  5. What’s the best way to serve this pasta bake?

    I like to serve it warm, garnished with fresh herbs and paired with a crisp green salad and garlic bread. It’s hearty and filling, so simple sides keep the meal balanced.

Final Thoughts

This BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is one of those dishes I turn to when I want something both comforting and fuss-free. I love how the smoky bacon and tangy ranch blend with the BBQ sauce for a meal that feels like a warm hug. If you give it a try, I think you’ll see why it’s become a family favorite at my house. So grab your favorite pasta, some chicken, and get ready to enjoy a deliciously simple dinner that everyone will ask for again and again!

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BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

BBQ Ranch Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 102 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 12 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
Print Recipe

Description

A comforting and flavorful BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole combining tender shredded chicken, smoky bacon, melty cheddar cheese, and a zesty blend of ranch and BBQ sauce. Perfect for a quick and hearty family meal baked to perfection with a cheesy golden top.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein

  • 12 ounces bowtie pasta
  • 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast (rotisserie, leftovers, or cooked & shredded)
  • ½ cup chopped cooked bacon (use real bacon pieces, no imitation bits)

Vegetables & Mix-ins

  • 15 ounces canned corn, drained
  • 10 ounces Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies), undrained
  • 7 ounces diced green chiles, undrained
  • 1 tbsp minced onions

Cheese & Sauces

  • 2½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (a cheddar blend works great)
  • 1 cup ranch dressing
  • ¾ cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to warm up while you prepare your casserole ingredients.
  2. Cook the pasta: Boil the bowtie pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain the pasta thoroughly and transfer it to a large mixing bowl.
  3. Combine ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, chopped bacon, shredded cheese, drained corn, undrained Rotel, diced green chiles, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, and minced onions into the bowl with the pasta. Toss everything together gently to ensure the flavors are evenly mixed.
  4. Prepare for baking: Transfer the mixed casserole to a baking dish. For extra cheesiness, sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top if desired.
  5. Bake the casserole: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the casserole is thoroughly heated and the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
  6. Serve: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy your hearty BBQ Ranch Chicken Casserole!

Notes

  • Use real cooked bacon pieces, not imitation bits, for authentic flavor.
  • You can substitute ranch dressing with a homemade ranch mix for a fresher taste.
  • Feel free to add extra cheese on top for a cheesier crust.
  • Leftover casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated.
  • Bowtie pasta can be substituted with other short pasta shapes like penne or rotini.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 9g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

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