Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors and satisfying textures, making it a perfect choice for busy days and gatherings. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this pasta salad is a hit with family and friends alike. Whether you’re hosting a potluck or looking for an easy weeknight dinner, Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 800mg
Why Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a fantastic addition to your recipe collection. Not only is it packed with protein from the chicken and bacon, but it also includes fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes and green onions for extra nutrition. The creamy ranch dressing ties all the flavors together beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience. Its versatility means you can adapt it to include whatever leftovers or ingredients you have on hand, making it a great way to reduce food waste.
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Step by Step
Ingredients
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy at your next potluck!
How to Serve Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, making it an excellent side for BBQs. Serve it alongside crusty bread or garlic knots for a hearty meal. You could also add a light side salad or some fresh fruit to create a balanced meal that everyone will love.
How to Store Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
To keep your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to three days. Unfortunately, this salad is not ideal for freezing due to the pasta’s texture. If you need to reheat it, it’s best to serve it cold or at room temperature for the best flavor experience.
Expert Tips for Cooking Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
- For added flavor, try using flavored ranch dressing such as spicy or avocado ranch.
- Make it a complete meal by adding other protein sources like hard-boiled eggs or diced avocado.
- If you’re short on time, use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
- Don’t skip the chilling step! This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Feel free to swap out the pasta for a gluten-free option to suit dietary needs.
Delicious Variations of Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the ranch dressing. You could also introduce a citrus twist by adding lime juice and zest for a refreshing flavor. For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and bacon, and add roasted vegetables or chickpeas for satisfying texture.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a must-try for anyone looking for an easy and flavorful dish. Embrace its bold flavors and stunning colors while enjoying the simplicity of this salad. Once you give it a taste, you’ll find it’s perfect for any occasion!
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients
Method
- Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cheddar cheese, and green onions.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy at your next potluck!
