This Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, all tossed in a creamy ranch dressing. It’s perfect for picnics or quick lunches!
Honestly, who could resist the combo of chicken and bacon? It’s like a party in your mouth! 🥳 I love making this salad ahead of time so the flavors really blend together. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Pasta shells are great for this salad because they hold the dressing well. You can use any pasta shape like rotini or penne if you prefer. Just make sure to cook them al dente for the best texture!
Chicken: I like using rotisserie chicken for convenience, but grilled or baked chicken works perfectly too. If you’re looking for a lighter option, shredded turkey can be a great substitute.
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a nice crunch. Turkey bacon is a healthier alternative if you’re watching your fat intake. You can also skip it altogether if you want a vegetarian dish.
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought ranch is quick and easy, but homemade ranch dressing made with yogurt can be a healthier option. You can use other dressings too, like Italian or Caesar, if you want to switch it up.
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Salad Is Full of Flavor?
Getting the flavors just right in pasta salad is all about not skipping the chilling step! After you mix all the ingredients, let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This helps the pasta soak up the ranch dressing and blend the flavors nicely.
- Make sure to taste before serving. You might need a bit more salt or pepper, especially if you used low-sodium ingredients.
- Feel free to add more veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and color!
- If you’re in a hurry, you can also serve it right away. Just remember, the flavors get better with time!
Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prep and cook. After that, you’ll want to refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors come together, making the total time about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Once they are done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This helps prevent the pasta from becoming mushy.
2. Combine Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta shells, diced cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, and shredded Parmesan cheese. This mix is where all the delicious flavors come together!
3. Dress the Salad:
Now, pour the ranch dressing over your salad mix. Gently toss all the ingredients together with a large spoon or spatula so that everything is evenly coated with the dressing. This is where the magic happens!
4. Season to Taste:
Add salt and pepper to your liking. I recommend starting with a little and adjusting based on your personal preference.
5. Garnish:
Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top for color and extra flavor. You can also add some more grated Parmesan cheese if you want!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Once chilled, serve it up cold or at room temperature, and enjoy your tasty Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works great. Just make sure it’s diced into bite-sized pieces for easy mixing.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing?
If you’re not a fan of ranch dressing, try using a creamy Caesar dressing, Italian dressing, or even a yogurt-based dressing for a lighter option. Each will give a different flavor profile!
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, but expect the pasta to absorb some dressing. You can add a little extra dressing before serving if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Pasta Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare this salad up to a day in advance! Just make sure to keep it covered in the fridge. If you’re making it ahead, consider adding the tomatoes just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
