This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a yummy mix of tender pasta, juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch dressing. It’s the perfect dish for a picnic or a quick weeknight dinner!
I love how easy it is to make! Just toss everything together, and voila! Plus, it’s great for leftovers, so you can enjoy it all week long—if it lasts that long! 😂
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This pasta type holds dressing well with its tubular shape. If you don’t have penne, you can swap it for fusilli or rotini, which also work great for salads.
Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a time-saver. If you’re looking for a healthier option, grilled chicken breast works too. You could even go vegetarian with chickpeas!
Bacon: While crispy bacon adds a salty crunch, turkey bacon is a leaner alternative. For a plant-based version, try using crispy tofu or tempeh for that texture.
Ranch Dressing: If you’re not a fan of ranch, try using blue cheese or a homemade vinaigrette. You can also make your own ranch by mixing yogurt with herbs!
Fresh Parsley: Parsley brightens the dish, but basil or cilantro are great substitutes. I prefer using cilantro for a unique flavor twist!
How Can I Ensure My Pasta Salad is Extra Tasty?
Getting that great flavor in a pasta salad involves some special steps. First, rinse your cooked penne with cold water after draining. This not only cools it down but also stops the cooking process, keeping the pasta firm.
- Boil the pasta according to package directions and drain, rinsing with cold water.
- Mixing dressing separately ensures it blends well before adding it to the salad.
- Chilling the salad allows all flavors to mingle, making it more delicious. Aim for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
Feel free to taste and adjust seasoning after chilling, as flavors can mellow. Enjoy!
How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Base:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- 6 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled
Dressing and Mix-ins:
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty pasta salad takes about 15 minutes to prepare and at least 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. So in total, you’re looking at around 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick meal or a side dish at gatherings!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. After it’s cooked, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to cool it down, preventing it from getting mushy.
2. Mix the Base Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and fresh parsley. Give it all a nice gentle stir to mix everything together evenly.
3. Make the Dressing:
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and mayonnaise until you have a smooth mixture. This will be the creamy dressing that brings all the flavors together!
4. Combine Everything:
Drizzle the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss it all together. Make sure everything is well-coated with the dressing for that delicious flavor in every bite!
5. Season and Add Cheese:
Sprinkle some salt and pepper over the salad to taste. If you’d like, you can also fold in the optional shredded cheddar cheese at this stage for an extra cheesy bite!
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place your pasta salad in the refrigerator to chill for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors meld beautifully.
7. Enjoy Your Salad!
After chilling, give the salad a good stir and serve it cold. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad at lunch, dinner, or as a side dish at your next gathering!
Can I Use Different Pasta Shapes in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While penne works great, feel free to use any pasta shape you enjoy, such as rotini, farfalle, or even macaroni. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To refresh the salad before serving, add a splash of ranch dressing or mayonnaise since the pasta may absorb some of the moisture during storage.
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, this pasta salad is perfect for making ahead! You can prepare it a day in advance. Just ensure you keep it covered in the fridge. If you’re serving it after a longer storage time, give it a stir and adjust the dressing if necessary.
Can I Substitute the Ranch Dressing?
Definitely! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with herbs to create a homemade ranch alternative. Or, for a different flavor, try using Italian dressing or a vinaigrette instead!
