This Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of chicken, crispy bacon, and pasta all tossed in a creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or a picnic!
Honestly, who can resist bacon in a salad? I love serving it cold on hot days—it’s like a hug in a bowl! 🥗🍖 Plus, it’s so easy to whip up in no time!
Making this pasta salad is a breeze! You just cook the pasta, mix it with chicken and bacon, then toss in the ranch. Simple, right? It’s a family favorite for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta Shells: I love using pasta shells for their ability to hold the dressing and other ingredients well. If you’re out of shells, any shaped pasta like rotini or penne will work great too!
Chicken Breast: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut. It’s already cooked and adds flavor. If you prefer less meat, feel free to reduce the chicken amount!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a delicious crunch. Turkey bacon is a lighter option if you want to cut down on fat. You can also try adding crispy pancetta for something a bit different.
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought is super easy, but homemade is a great way to control the flavors. If you’re not a ranch fan, use a creamy Italian dressing or a vinaigrette instead.
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly for Salad?
Cooking pasta properly is crucial for a good salad. You want it to be firm enough to hold up to other ingredients but not too soft. Here’s how:
- Boil a large pot of salted water (about 1 tsp salt per quart).
- Add pasta and set a timer for 1-2 minutes less than package instructions for al dente.
- Taste a piece before draining. If it has a slight bite, it’s ready!
- Drain and rinse under cold water immediately. This stops the cooking process and cools the pasta.
Perfectly cooked pasta ensures your salad has the right texture and doesn’t become mushy. Enjoy your pasta salad! 🌟
Easy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz pasta shells
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful pasta salad will take you about 20 minutes of prep time and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. Overall, you’ll be enjoying this tasty dish in around 50 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the pasta shells and cook according to the package directions until they are al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. Set it aside to finish draining.
2. Prepare the Bacon:
While your pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the bacon slices until they are nice and crispy. Once done, transfer the bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess grease. Once cooled, crumble the bacon into small pieces.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta shells, the cooked and diced chicken breast, the crumbled bacon, the halved cherry tomatoes, the finely chopped red onion, and the shredded Parmesan cheese. Give it a gentle mix to blend everything together nicely!
4. Add the Dressing:
Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture. Use a large spoon or spatula to gently toss everything together, making sure all the ingredients are well coated with the dressing.
5. Season and Garnish:
Taste your salad and season it with salt and pepper to your liking. Don’t forget the fresh parsley—just sprinkle it on top for a burst of color and flavor!
6. Chill the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the pasta salad to an airtight container. Refrigerate it for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together beautifully.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
After chilling, give the salad a quick stir, then serve it up on plates or in bowls. Enjoy your cool, creamy, delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad! Perfect for any occasion!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While pasta shells work great for this salad, you can substitute any shaped pasta like rotini, penne, or fusilli. Just ensure to cook it al dente for the best texture!
How Can I Make This Pasta Salad Healthier?
To lighten things up, consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta. You can also use low-fat or Greek yogurt ranch dressing instead of regular ranch for fewer calories.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, definitely! You can prep the salad up to a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator. The flavors will deepen, but you might want to add a splash more ranch dressing before serving to freshen it up!
What Are Your Storage Recommendations?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. However, be mindful that the pasta may absorb some dressing over time, so adding a bit more dressing when reheating or serving leftovers can help maintain creaminess!
