This simple chicken bacon ranch pasta salad is a fun mix of flavors! With juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing, it’s like a party in your mouth!
I love how quick and easy it is to whip up! Just combine everything together, and you’ve got a tasty dish perfect for lunch or a picnic. Trust me, it’ll disappear fast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Rotini Pasta: This fun-shaped pasta holds onto the dressing well. You can swap it out for fusilli, penne, or any pasta you have on hand, like bowties or shells. Just make sure it has a nice bite when cooked!
Cooked Chicken: You can use rotisserie chicken for easy prep or leftover grilled chicken, which adds great flavor. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute with chickpeas or diced tofu for protein.
Bacon: Crispy bacon gives a delicious crunch. If you’re looking to lighten it up or need a vegetarian option, turkey bacon or even crispy chickpeas can work great!
Cherry Tomatoes: They add a fresh burst of flavor. If you don’t have them, diced regular tomatoes or even sliced bell peppers are nice alternatives.
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought is super convenient, but homemade ranch can elevate the flavors even more! You can also try a yogurt-based dressing for a healthier twist.
What’s the Best Way to Cook and Cool Pasta for Salad?
Cooking pasta perfectly for a salad is important. You want it tender but firm enough to hold its shape. Follow these steps:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. This adds flavor to the pasta.
- Add the rotini and cook according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
- Check for “al dente” – it should have a slight firmness to the bite.
- After draining, rinse the pasta under cold water. This stops the cooking process and cools it down for the salad.
Cooling is key to avoid gummy pasta and ensure a refreshing salad!
How to Make Simple Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Components:
- 8 oz rotini pasta
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh dill (or other herbs), chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you can have this delicious pasta salad ready in about 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the rotini pasta. Boil a large pot of water and add a pinch of salt. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to cool it down. This also prevents it from getting soggy.
2. Combine Main Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, and halved cherry tomatoes. Give it a good mix so all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Add Ranch Dressing:
Pour the ranch dressing over the pasta mixture and stir gently until everything is well-coated. The dressing will bring all the flavors together!
4. Incorporate Cheese and Herbs:
Now it’s time to add some cheesy goodness! Gently fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and the fresh chopped dill. This will add a nice extra layer of flavor.
5. Season and Adjust:
Season the pasta salad with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last mix to ensure the seasoning is evenly spread throughout the dish.
6. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Let it chill for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, enjoy the pasta salad chilled or at room temperature!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute the rotini pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli, penne, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose.
How Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
This pasta salad is great for make-ahead meals! You can prepare it up to 24 hours in advance. Just keep it stored in an airtight container in the fridge. If you find it a bit dry when serving, you may add a splash of ranch dressing to refresh it before serving.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
If you’re looking for a different flavor, you can use blue cheese dressing, Caesar dressing, or even a homemade vinaigrette. Just keep in mind that each dressing will change the overall taste of the salad, so choose one that complements your flavor preference!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftover pasta salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If it seems dry after sitting, mix in a little more ranch dressing or a bit of olive oil to revive the flavors before enjoying it again.
