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Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

This creamy, protein-packed pasta salad combines tender rotini with crispy bacon, juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and that irresistible ranch flavor everyone craves. It comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound rotini or penne pasta
  • 3 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
  • 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1½ cups cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ½ cup red onion, finely diced
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 1½ cups ranch dressing
  • ½ cup mayonnaise
  • ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside to cool completely.
  2. While the pasta cooks, prepare your bacon. Lay strips on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until crispy. Alternatively, cook in a skillet over medium heat. Once done, transfer to paper towels, then crumble into bite-sized pieces.
  3. If you're cooking chicken from scratch, season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side or bake at 375°F for 25 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Let rest, then dice into cubes.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ranch dressing and mayonnaise. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  5. Add the cooled pasta to the bowl with the dressing. Toss well to coat every piece evenly.
  6. Fold in the diced chicken, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, shredded cheese, red onion, and celery. Mix gently but thoroughly.
  7. Season your Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad with salt and black pepper to taste.
  8. Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour before serving. Just before serving, garnish with fresh parsley and give everything a good stir.

Notes

This pasta salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reserve some dressing to add just before serving to keep it creamy.