This chicken bacon ranch pasta salad is a fun mix of flavors! It features tender pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch dressing that binds everything together. Yum!
Making this salad is a breeze! I often whip it up for picnics or quick dinners, because who doesn’t love chicken and bacon together? It’s creamy, crunchy, and oh-so-good!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I like using rotini because its twists hold the dressing nicely, but any short pasta such as penne or bow ties works too! Just make sure it cooks to al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the salad.
Chicken: Rotisserie chicken is my go-to for convenience. Shredded or cubed, it’s quick, tasty, and saves time. You could also use leftover chicken or even turkey for a change!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds great flavor! If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon can do the trick. Or, use a plant-based bacon for a vegetarian version.
Ranch Dressing: I love the creamy tang of ranch, but you can substitute with yogurt dressing or even a vinaigrette for a lighter touch. Just adjust the amount to taste.
Greens: Besides romaine, you could use spinach or arugula for added flavor. These also add a nice pop of color!
How Do I Keep the Pasta Salad from Getting Soggy?
A common challenge with pasta salad is keeping it fresh and not soggy. Here are some tips:
- Always rinse the cooked pasta under cold water after draining. This stops the cooking and cools it down quickly.
- Mix the dressing just before serving. If you dress the salad too early, it can soak up too much liquid.
- Keep add-ins like croutons separate until you’re ready to eat. They’ll stay crunchy longer this way.
- Don’t skip chilling the salad. It allows flavors to meld while keeping ingredients fresh!
Following these tips will help you create a delightful chicken bacon ranch pasta salad that stays fresh and tasty!
Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 3 cups rotini pasta (or any short pasta)
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed or shredded
- 6 strips cooked bacon, chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup chopped romaine lettuce
- 1/2 cup green onions, sliced
For the Dressing:
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup buttermilk (optional, for thinner dressing)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional:
- 1 cup croutons (for added crunch)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pasta salad takes about 20 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill. So, in total, you’ll spend around 50 minutes making this delicious dish. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente (firm). Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. This will also prevent it from sticking together!
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cubed or shredded chicken, chopped bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped romaine lettuce, and sliced green onions. Give it a gentle stir to mix everything together.
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In another bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and buttermilk (if you’re using it). This will create a creamy dressing that’s full of flavor!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the ranch dressing mixture over the pasta salad ingredients in the large bowl. Toss gently but thoroughly to ensure everything is coated evenly with the dressing.
5. Add Croutons and Garnish:
If you’d like some crunch, sprinkle the croutons over the top of the salad. Then, add a little more smoked paprika as a lovely garnish. It not only looks great but adds a touch more flavor!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place the salad in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully!
7. Enjoy!
Serve the pasta salad cold and enjoy every delicious bite. It’s a fantastic side dish for summer picnics or barbecues, and the combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, creamy ranch, and fresh greens is always crowd-pleasing!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken you have on hand works perfectly in this recipe. Just remember to shred or cube it for easy mixing!
How Can I Make This Salad Vegetarian?
You can easily make this dish vegetarian by omitting the chicken and bacon. Substitute with your favorite plant-based protein, like chickpeas or tofu, and use a vegetarian ranch dressing.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This pasta salad is perfect for meal prep. You can make it up to a day in advance; just keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will deepen as it chills!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving again, as the dressing may settle.
