Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Looking to elevate your summer picnics or weeknight dinners with a dish that’s sure to impress? Look no further than this mouthwatering Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad. This savory and crunchy twist on a classic pasta salad is packed with all the comfort and bold flavors you never knew you needed in one bowl.

I first introduced this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad at a family reunion, and it became an instant hit with even the pickiest eaters going back for seconds and thirds. It has since become my go-to recipe whenever I want to treat my loved ones to something truly special. The addition of sharp cheddar cheese adds an extra layer of comfort and richness that takes this salad to the next level.

Whether you’re preparing it for a potluck, picnic, or a cozy family dinner, this salad is a versatile crowd-pleaser that never fails to impress. By using quality ingredients like grilled chicken, crispy bacon, and homemade ranch dressing, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes. So, get ready to delight your taste buds and create lasting memories with this unforgettable Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad.

Quick Benefits

• Delivers bold flavors and comforting taste in every bite
• Versatile – can be a main dish, side dish, picnic classic, or potluck favorite
• Easy to customize with ingredient swaps for dietary preferences
• Maintains freshness and flavor for up to three days when stored properly

Why You’ll Love This Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe

• Satisfying and Versatile: This recipe is perfect for a summer picnic or a cozy weeknight dinner, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.
• Comforting and Flavorful: The combination of chicken, bacon, ranch dressing, and cheddar cheese creates a savory and punchy flavor profile that is both comforting and delicious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Picky eaters and food lovers alike will be coming back for seconds and requesting leftovers, making it a hit with everyone.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days, with flavors deepening and improving over time, saving you time and effort.
• Customizable Options: Easily customize the recipe by swapping ingredients like cheese, bacon, or adding different vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
• Main Event or Side Dish: This salad can be a standalone main course or a delightful side dish at potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings.
• Fresh and Crunchy: Add romaine lettuce and croutons just before serving to maintain their crunch and freshness, ensuring a delightful texture.
• Healthier Twist: Using Greek yogurt-based ranch dressing reduces the fat content while keeping the creamy texture and adding a fresher taste.
• Time-Saving Tips: Prepping chicken and bacon in advance and freezing them separately allows for quick assembly when needed, perfect for busy days.
• Memorable and Traditional: Once you make this salad, it might become a staple in your summer traditions, creating lasting memories with friends and family.

Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Main Ingredients

• 3/4 cup ranch dressing, homemade or store-bought
• 1 to 2 tablespoons poultry seasoning
• 8 ounces dry rotini or fusilli pasta
• 8 slices bacon, diced
• 7 ounces romaine lettuce, shredded
• 6 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1.5 pounds chicken breasts or tenderloins, diced into 2-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup croutons, roughly chopped
• 5 green onions, diced
• Pinch Salad Supreme seasoning, to taste

Low-Fat Greek Yogurt Ranch (Optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 to 2 tablespoons buttermilk or milk, as needed
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried chives
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

Pro Tips for Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

For the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad recipe, ensure your chicken pieces are evenly sized for consistent cooking. Marinating the chicken with poultry seasoning before cooking can boost flavor. If using store-bought dressing, elevate the taste by adding a dash of poultry seasoning or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a personal touch. Don’t forget to toss the pasta with a little olive oil after cooking to prevent sticking and enhance the overall texture of the salad.

When prepping in advance, freeze cooked chicken and bacon separately for a quick assembly later. Thaw them before combining with freshly cooked pasta and greens to save time. Opt for whole grain or high-protein pasta for added nutrition and a heartier texture that complements the other ingredients. To keep the salad crisp, add the shredded romaine and croutons just before serving. Similarly, prepare extra dressing to toss with the salad right before serving to maintain its freshness and vibrancy.

How to Make Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook Bacon

Cook bacon slices in a large pan over low heat until crispy. Remove and set aside. Keep 2 tablespoons of pan drippings and discard the excess.

Step 2: Prepare Chicken

Massage diced chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and generously season with poultry seasoning. Cook chicken in reserved bacon drippings on medium-low heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side until done.

Step 3: Cook Pasta

1. Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook rotini or fusilli pasta as per package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.

Step 4: Assemble Salad Components

Combine cooked pasta, chicken, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions in a large bowl. Drizzle with most of the ranch dressing, toss well, and season with Salad Supreme seasoning to taste.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Combine shredded romaine lettuce, croutons, and the rest of the ranch dressing in the bowl. Toss well and serve promptly.

Storage Tips

After preparing the delectable Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the salad components fresh and crunchy, consider storing the lettuce and croutons separately and combining them with the rest of the salad just before serving. The flavors of the salad actually intensify and improve after spending some time in the fridge, enhancing the overall taste experience.

For longer-term storage solutions, it’s recommended to freeze the cooked chicken and bacon separately to preserve their quality. When ready to enjoy the salad, simply thaw the chicken and bacon, cook fresh pasta, and toss them with greens for a quick and convenient meal. This method allows you to enjoy the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad without compromising on taste or texture. Whether serving this dish at a picnic, potluck, or weeknight dinner, following these storage tips will help maintain the salad’s delicious flavors and components.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re looking to make some ingredient substitutions in the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, here are a few options to consider. If you’re out of cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be used for a milder but still creamy taste. For a lighter option, swap the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version, adding roasted chickpeas for a crunchy element. Any type of short pasta, from penne to bowtie, can be used interchangeably based on what you have on hand.

Consider using grilled corn or cherry tomatoes in the summer for added color and freshness, or switch to baby spinach during the winter for a heartier green. Adding roasted red peppers can provide an eye-catching contrast to the salad anytime. Feel free to experiment with different seasonal ingredients to customize the salad to your preferences. Additionally, whole grain or high-protein pasta can be substituted for added nutrition without compromising the overall flavor profile of the dish.

Serving Suggestions

For a creative serving suggestion, try assembling individual mason jar pasta salads with layers of the chicken bacon ranch pasta salad components. Start with a base of creamy ranch dressing mixed with Greek yogurt, followed by a layer of cooked rotini pasta, diced chicken, crispy bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Top with a sprinkle of Salad Supreme seasoning and a handful of chopped croutons for added crunch. Seal the jars and refrigerate until ready to serve for a portable and visually appealing meal or snack.

Another fun way to serve this chicken bacon ranch pasta salad is to create a DIY pasta salad bar for a gathering or party. Set out bowls of the prepared ingredients such as diced chicken, bacon, lettuce, cheddar cheese, green onions, and croutons, along with bottles of ranch dressing and Greek yogurt ranch. Allow guests to customize their own pasta salad bowls by mixing and matching their favorite ingredients in individual servings. It’s a interactive and customizable way to enjoy this beloved comfort food dish with a fresh twist.

FAQs for Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Can I use a different type of pasta for this salad?

Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne or bowtie if you don’t have rotini or fusilli on hand.

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese with a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! You can use Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder but still creamy taste if you prefer.

Can I make this salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the cooked chicken and bacon in advance and freeze them separately. When ready to serve, thaw and toss with freshly cooked pasta and greens for a quick shortcut.

Why should I add the shredded romaine and croutons just before serving?

Adding the romaine and croutons just before serving helps maintain their crunch and freshness, ensuring the best texture for your salad.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dish for a summer gathering or a comforting meal for a cozy night in, Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is the answer. This recipe beautifully combines savory chicken, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy ranch dressing into a delightful pasta salad that will surely become a favorite in your household.

Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad on repeat. Its versatility allows for easy customization based on your preferences and what you have on hand. From family dinners to potlucks and picnics, this salad is a reliable option that never fails to impress.

So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch of this delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for more. Embrace the comfort and bold flavors of this modern twist on a classic American dish, and let it become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Delicious Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

“Indulge in the ultimate comfort and flavor with this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, a savory twist on classic pasta salad that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.”

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time18 min

Cook Time22 min

Total Time40 min

CuisineAmerican

Skill LevelEasy

Servings8 Servings (One large salad bowl)

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 3/4 cup ranch dressing, homemade or store-bought
• 1 to 2 tablespoons poultry seasoning
• 8 ounces dry rotini or fusilli pasta
• 8 slices bacon, diced
• 7 ounces romaine lettuce, shredded
• 6 ounces cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1.5 pounds chicken breasts or tenderloins, diced into 2-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup croutons, roughly chopped
• 5 green onions, diced
• Pinch Salad Supreme seasoning, to taste

Low-Fat Greek Yogurt Ranch (Optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 to 2 tablespoons buttermilk or milk, as needed
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried chives
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt

Instructions

1. Cook Bacon: Cook bacon slices in a large pan over low heat until crispy. Remove and set aside. Keep 2 tablespoons of pan drippings and discard the excess.
2. Prepare Chicken: Massage diced chicken with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and generously season with poultry seasoning. Cook chicken in reserved bacon drippings on medium-low heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side until done.
3. Cook Pasta: 1. Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook rotini or fusilli pasta as per package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
4. Assemble Salad Components: Combine cooked pasta, chicken, cheddar cheese, bacon, and green onions in a large bowl. Drizzle with most of the ranch dressing, toss well, and season with Salad Supreme seasoning to taste.
5. Finish and Serve: Combine shredded romaine lettuce, croutons, and the rest of the ranch dressing in the bowl. Toss well and serve promptly.