Irresistible Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is like a delicious hug in a bowl, where the flavors of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch dressing mingle in perfect harmony. Imagine digging into this creamy delight on a sunny picnic day or while enjoying a casual movie night with friends—it’s the ultimate comfort food that transforms any ordinary occasion into something special. creamy chicken soup.

This salad has been my go-to for family gatherings, where everyone from picky eaters to adventurous foodies happily devours it. The anticipation of each bite bursting with savory goodness makes it impossible not to smile. spicy dip for gatherings Whether you’re whipping it up for a potluck or just treating yourself on a lazy Sunday, Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad promises an unforgettable flavor experience.

Ingredients for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

For more inspiration, check out this Philly Cheesesteak Pasta Recipe recipe.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Rotini Pasta: This curly pasta shape holds onto the dressing beautifully, making each bite flavorful.
• Cooked Chicken Breast: Use shredded or diced chicken; leftover rotisserie chicken works wonders here.
• Crispy Bacon: Fry up some bacon until crispy for that irresistible crunch and smoky flavor.
• Ranch Dressing: Choose your favorite store-bought dressing or whip up a homemade version for extra zing.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes add freshness and a pop of color to your salad.
• Shredded Cheese: A mix of cheddar and mozzarella enhances creaminess; sprinkle generously!
• Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions bring a mild onion flavor that brightens the dish.

For the Sauce:

• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess; adjust according to your preference for richness in the salad.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

If using raw chicken breasts, season them with salt and pepper. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked. Shred or dice into bite-sized pieces once cooled.

Step 3: Fry the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, fry your bacon until crispy—about 7-10 minutes should do it! Once done, place on paper towels to drain excess grease before chopping into small pieces.

Step 4: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, chicken, bacon, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese, and green onions.

Step 5: Add Dressing

Pour ranch dressing and mayonnaise over the mixture; toss gently until everything is well coated.

Step 6: Chill and Serve

Let your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour before serving. This allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully! Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional ranch if desired for the perfect finishing touch.

And there you have it—a delightful Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad ready to steal the show at any gathering! Enjoy every mouthwatering bite as you bask in compliments from friends and family alike!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the chicken until it’s golden brown, then cook the pasta while whisking together the ranch dressing. Mixing it all together at just the right moment ensures that every bite bursts with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or add veggies like bell peppers and cucumbers for extra crunch. A sprinkle of parmesan or a dash of hot sauce can elevate your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad even further. homemade comeback sauce.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To enjoy again, simply toss it back into a bowl, and add a splash of ranch dressing for freshness before serving.

One time, I brought this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad to a family gathering, and my cousin declared it “the best thing since sliced bread.” It was gone within minutes, leaving me both proud and slightly disappointed because I didn’t get seconds!

FAQs :

What is Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad?

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines tender pasta, grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch dressing. This salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a quick meal option. The combination of flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or herbs.

How do I store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad?

To store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to stir the salad before serving again, as the dressing may settle. If you want to keep it from getting soggy, consider adding ingredients like bacon just before serving.

Can I make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad ahead of time! In fact, making it a few hours or even a day in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just remember to store it in the refrigerator and give it a good stir before serving. This dish is ideal for meal prep or for hosting gatherings where you want minimal last-minute effort.

What variations can I try with Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad?

There are plenty of variations you can try with Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad. Feel free to add fresh veggies like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or cucumbers for extra crunch. You can also substitute the chicken with turkey or rotisserie chicken for convenience. Additionally, using different types of pasta or adding cheese can elevate the flavors further.

Conclusion for Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad :

In summary, one pan chicken dish that everyone will enjoy. With its combination of creamy ranch dressing and savory ingredients like chicken and bacon, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for lunch or a special event, this salad offers easy customization options to suit your taste. Enjoy this recipe as part of your meal prep or serve it at your next gathering for a delightful treat.

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Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

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• Author: Chloe
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender rotini pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch dressing for a deliciously satisfying dish. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family dinners, this vibrant salad is sure to impress your guests and tantalize your taste buds. With its creamy texture and colorful ingredients, it’s a delightful meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

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• 8 oz rotini pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
• 6 slices crispy bacon, chopped
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar and mozzarella blend)
• ½ cup green onions, sliced
• ½ cup mayonnaise

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Instructions

1. Cook the rotini pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and rinse with cold water.
2. If using raw chicken breasts, season and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until fully cooked; shred or dice.
3. Fry bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy; drain on paper towels and chop.
4. In a large bowl, combine pasta, chicken, bacon, tomatoes, cheese, and green onions.
5. Add ranch dressing and mayonnaise; toss gently to coat.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Salad
• Method: Boiling/Frying
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 31g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 21g
• Cholesterol: 80mg