This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of tender pasta, juicy chicken, crunchy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing. It’s colorful and super easy to make!
Honestly, who can resist the combo of chicken and bacon? I often whip this up for picnics or potlucks, and it always disappears fast. Plus, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This twisted pasta shape is great for holding onto the dressing. If you can’t find rotini, try penne or farfalle instead. They work just as well in this salad!
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is my go-to since it’s quick and flavorful. You can also use leftover grilled chicken or even diced turkey for a slight twist.
Bacon: For that crispy texture, I recommend using thick-cut bacon. If you want a lighter option, turkey bacon is a great substitute, but it won’t be as crispy.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a sweet burst of flavor. If you’re short on fresh tomatoes, canned sliced tomatoes can work, though they might be a bit juicier.
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought ranch is convenient and tasty, but you can make your own if you prefer! Combine mayonnaise, buttermilk, garlic powder, and some herbs for a fresh taste.
How Do You Ensure Your Pasta Salad Has the Right Texture?
The trick to perfect pasta salad starts with the pasta. Cook it until it’s al dente; this means it’s firm to the bite. Here’s how to prepare it properly:
- Boil salted water and add your rotini, cooking per package instructions.
- After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water. This stops the cooking process and helps it cool.
- Let the pasta dry a bit before mixing it with other ingredients, so it doesn’t become mushy.
Taking these steps helps keep the salad crunchy and enjoyable!
How to Make Simple Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 8 ounces rotini pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For the Dressing:
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt (to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (to taste)
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and you’ll want to chill it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to let all the flavors blend together. In just a little over 45 minutes, you’ll have a tasty meal or side dish ready to go!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. When it’s done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside to let any excess water drain off.
2. Mix the Other Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, and shredded cheddar cheese. This is where the magic of flavors starts to mix!
3. Prepare the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, mix together the ranch dressing, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well until everything is nicely blended. This creamy mixture will add so much flavor to your salad.
4. Combine Everything:
Add the cooled rotini pasta to the bowl with the chicken and bacon mixture. Then, pour the ranch dressing mixture over the top. Use a spatula or large spoon to gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are well coated in the delicious dressing.
5. Season to Taste:
Give your pasta salad a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If it needs a bit more salt or pepper, add it now. Every bite should be bursting with flavor!
6. Chill and Garnish:
Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes. This chilling time lets the flavors meld beautifully together. When you’re ready to serve, feel free to garnish with some fresh dill or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your Simple Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad! Perfect for a quick lunch, a picnic, or a family gathering!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini is recommended for its shape and ability to hold the dressing well, you can use any pasta you have on hand. Penne, fusilli, or bowtie pasta would work great too. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions.
Can I Substitute the Chicken for Another Protein?
Yes, you can easily swap the chicken for other proteins like diced turkey, shredded rotisserie chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking method accordingly if you need to cook the protein from scratch.
How Long Can I Store This Pasta Salad?
This pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If it seems dry when you’re ready to serve it again, just add a splash of ranch dressing to refresh it.
Can I Make It Ahead Of Time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for make-ahead meals! You can prepare it up to a day in advance; just be sure to keep it chilled in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop even more, making it taste delicious when you’re ready to serve!
