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Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
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Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a creamy and crispy pasta salad that combines savory chicken, smoky bacon, and tangy ranch dressing with perfectly cooked pasta. This flavorful and versatile dish is ideal for picnics, potlucks, or quick lunches, offering a delicious blend of textures and tastes that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Scale

Pasta & Proteins

  • 2 cups rotini or bowtie pasta, cooked al dente
  • 1 1/2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (grilled or baked)
  • 6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled

Vegetables & Herbs

  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup celery, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped

Dairy & Dressing

  • 1 cup cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
  • 3/4 cup ranch dressing

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the rotini or bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the noodles for the salad.
  2. Prepare the Chicken and Bacon: Cook chicken by grilling or baking, then shred or dice into bite-sized pieces. Fry or bake bacon until crispy and crumble into small crunchy bits.
  3. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss together the cooled pasta, chicken, bacon, chopped red onion, celery, and cheddar cheese cubes.
  4. Add the Dressing: Pour ranch dressing over the mixture and gently toss until everything is evenly coated with creamy dressing.
  5. Chill and Garnish: Cover the salad and refrigerate for at least one hour to let flavors meld. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley or chives for added freshness and color.

Notes

  • Cook pasta al dente to maintain perfect texture and avoid mushiness.
  • Chill the salad to allow flavors to blend and develop.
  • Use thick-cut bacon for enhanced smoky flavor and crunch.
  • Add ranch dressing gradually to prevent sogginess; adjust to taste.
  • This salad can be prepared ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing is not recommended as the creamy dressing may separate.
  • Serve cold or at room temperature; avoid reheating or let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes if a warmer salad is desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chicken bacon ranch pasta salad, creamy pasta salad, picnic pasta salad, potluck recipes, easy pasta salad, chicken salad with bacon

Find it online: https://gourmetglazing.com/chicken-bacon-ranch-pasta-salad/