Go Back
When it comes to comfort food that can easily please a crowd, few dishes hold a candle to the BBQ Chicken & Ranch Pasta Bake. This dish seamlessly combines the smoky, tangy flavors of barbecue chicken with the creamy, zesty notes of ranch dressing, all enveloped in a warm, cheesy pasta base. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner, planning a potluck, or simply craving a hearty meal, this pasta bake is the ultimate solution. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also a guaranteed hit, making it an ideal candidate for your dinner rotation.

BBQ Chicken & Ranch Pasta Bake

Discover the ultimate comfort food with the BBQ Chicken & Ranch Pasta Bake! This dish perfectly marries smoky barbecue chicken with creamy ranch dressing, all nestled in cheesy, baked pasta. It's not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Versatile and adaptable, you can customize it with your favorite ingredients. Enjoy a hearty meal that brings everyone together and fills your home with warmth and flavor!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

2 cups rotini pasta (or any pasta of your choice)

1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded (can use rotisserie chicken for convenience)

1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)

1 cup ranch dressing

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: 1/2 cup crispy bacon bits (for extra flavor)

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

    Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

      Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken with BBQ sauce and ranch dressing. Stir until the chicken is well-coated.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the BBQ chicken mixture. Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, mixing until everything is evenly distributed.

          Cheese It Up: Fold in half of the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese into the pasta mixture for a creamy texture.

            Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the pasta and chicken mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.

              Top with Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. If using, add the crispy bacon bits.

                Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

                  Garnish: Once out of the oven, let the pasta bake sit for about 5 minutes. Then garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.

                    Serve: Scoop out portions and enjoy your delicious BBQ Chicken & Ranch Pasta Bake!

                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | 6 servings