This tasty Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad has all your favorites in one bowl! With juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, it’s a party in your mouth.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This twisted pasta holds on to the dressing nicely. If you don’t have rotini, you can use penne or fusilli. Both options are great for pasta salads.
Chicken Breast: Diced cooked chicken is a must for protein. If you’re looking for a quicker option, rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. You can also use grilled or leftover chicken breast.
Bacon: The crispy texture adds great flavor. Turkey bacon is a good substitution if you’re looking for something lighter, or you could even skip it and add some olives for a different twist!
Cherry Tomatoes: These sweet little tomatoes add freshness. If you prefer, grape tomatoes work well too, or you can use diced bell peppers for crunch and color.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings a creamy taste. For a change, try Monterey Jack or Gouda. Both add a lovely flavor to this salad.
Ranch Dressing: This is what gives the salad its signature taste. If you want a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt mixed with ranch seasoning. It’s tangy and delicious!
How Do I Cook the Perfect Pasta for a Salad?
Cooking pasta just right is key for salads. You want it to be firm yet tender. Here’s how to get it right:
- Use plenty of water while boiling to prevent sticking.
- Follow package instructions, but aim for “al dente” — firm when bitten.
- Once done, drain it promptly to stop the cooking, and rinse it under cool water.
- This not only cools the pasta but also helps to remove starch, keeping it from getting sticky.
Remember, properly cooked pasta holds up better in salads and makes every bite more enjoyable!
Simple Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Protein:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
Vegetables and Cheese:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Dressing and Seasoning:
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This colorful pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So, the total time is around 45 minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch or a tasty side dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a pot of water. Once it’s boiling, add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (cooked but still slightly firm). Once it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water. This will cool it down and stop the cooking process so it doesn’t get mushy!
2. Mix Main Ingredients:
Grab a large mixing bowl and add the cooled rotini pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese. This is where all the deliciousness begins!
3. Add the Ranch Dressing:
Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture. Use a spatula or spoon to gently mix everything together until all the ingredients are well coated in dressing.
4. Season to Taste:
Next, sprinkle in the fresh dill and add salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything again until it’s combined nicely. This is the time to adjust any seasonings if you’d like!
5. Chill and Serve:
Now, cover the mixing bowl or transfer the salad to an airtight container and chill it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully. When you’re ready, serve it chilled and enjoy your tasty Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad!
Can I Substitute the Chicken with a Different Protein?
Absolutely! You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience, or swap the chicken for turkey, diced ham, or even a plant-based protein like chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just ensure any swap is fully cooked before adding it to the salad.
How Long Will This Pasta Salad Keep in the Fridge?
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may separate a bit during storage.
Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and bacon. You can add extra veggies like bell peppers, cucumbers, or black olives, and consider including beans for some added protein and fiber!
How Can I Make the Salad a Bit Healthier?
To lighten up the salad, use a light or Greek yogurt-based ranch dressing, and consider reducing the amount of cheese or bacon. You can also add more veggies—like spinach or broccoli—to increase the nutrient content!
