Description
A creamy and flavorful Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad featuring tender pasta, smoky bacon, juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and sharp cheddar cheese tossed in a tangy ranch dressing. Perfect as a make-ahead side dish or light meal that can be enjoyed chilled.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 16 ounces small dried pasta (fusilli or rotini)
Protein & Cheese
- 6-8 strips thick-cut bacon, cooked and chopped (about 1/2 cup)
- 3 cups cooked chopped chicken (from leftovers or rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Vegetables
- 1 cup grape tomatoes (or cherry tomatoes), halved
- ½ cup chopped green onions
Dressing & Seasoning
- 12 ounces thick ranch dressing
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (or rice vinegar)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Set a large pot of salted water over high heat and bring it to a boil. Add the dried pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare the mix-ins: While the pasta cooks and cools, chop the cooked bacon, chicken, and grape tomatoes. Also, chop the green onions and shred the sharp cheddar cheese.
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, chopped chicken, tomatoes, green onions, and shredded cheddar cheese. Pour the ranch dressing and lemon juice over the mixture, then toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least one hour to allow the flavors to meld. Before serving, taste again and adjust salt and pepper if necessary.
Notes
- Use leftover roasted chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- For a lighter version, choose a low-fat ranch dressing.
- The salad can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add other veggies like cucumbers or bell peppers for extra crunch.
- Ensure the pasta is well cooled before mixing to prevent dressing from becoming watery.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
