Why Youโll Love This Recipe
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or an easy family dinner. The combination of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing with pasta creates a delicious, crowd-pleasing salad that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked pasta (rotini, penne, or your choice)
- Cooked chicken breast, diced
- Crispy bacon, crumbled
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and red onion.
- Add the ranch dressing and toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Servings and Timing
This recipe serves 6-8 people.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick:ย Add diced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.
- Healthier Option:ย Use Greek yogurt-based ranch dressing and turkey bacon.
- Extra Veggies:ย Include cucumbers, bell peppers, or avocados for added crunch and flavor.
- Pasta Swap:ย Try whole wheat pasta or gluten-free varieties.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This salad is best enjoyed cold, but if you prefer it warm, gently heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
FAQs
What type of chicken works best for this salad?
Grilled, roasted, or rotisserie chicken works great. You can also use leftover chicken.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, it’s perfect for making ahead. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve.
How do I keep the pasta from getting soggy?
Rinse the pasta under cold water after cooking to stop the cooking process and prevent sogginess.
Can I use bottled ranch dressing?
Absolutely. Use your favorite store-bought ranch or make your own for a fresher taste.
Is this salad gluten-free?
It can be if you use gluten-free pasta and ensure other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I freeze Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad?
It’s not recommended as the texture of the pasta and dressing may change after freezing.
How long can this salad sit out at a picnic?
No more than 2 hours to ensure food safety, or 1 hour if the temperature is above 90ยฐF.
What other cheeses can I use?
Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or feta for a different flavor.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, omit the chicken and bacon, and add extra veggies or a plant-based protein.
How can I make the salad creamier?
Add more ranch dressing or mix in a bit of mayonnaise or sour cream.
Conclusion
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a versatile, delicious dish that’s easy to prepare and loved by many. Whether for a casual family meal or a festive gathering, this salad is sure to impress with its bold flavors and satisfying textures.
Print
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes (for pasta and bacon)
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Salad, Main Course
- Method: No-Cook (after initial cooking)
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a creamy, flavorful dish thatโs perfect for picnics, potlucks, or an easy family dinner. Tender pasta is mixed with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh veggies, and tossed in a zesty ranch dressing. Itโs hearty, refreshing, and comes together in no time!
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rotini pasta (or any short pasta), cooled
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 1 cup cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup cucumber, diced (optional)
- 1 cup ranch dressing (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (for extra creaminess, optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Pasta:ย Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.
- Mix the Base:ย In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, bacon, cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, red onion, and cucumber.
- Dress the Salad:ย In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and mayonnaise (if using). Pour over the pasta mixture and toss until everything is well coated.
- Season:ย Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill:ย Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Serve:ย Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy chilled!
Notes
- You can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Add extra veggies like bell peppers or peas for more color and crunch.
- For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
- Tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
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