This Simple Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a tasty mix of pasta, chicken, crispy bacon, and a creamy ranch dressing. It’s perfect for warm days or potlucks!
I love how quick it is to whip up. Just toss all the goodies together, and you’ve got a delicious dish that everyone will enjoy—even that picky uncle! 😂
It’s great for lunch or dinner and can be made ahead of time. Just keep it in the fridge and let the flavors meld. Yum! You’ll be the hero of the meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: I usually use rotini or fusilli because their shape holds dressing really well. If you need a gluten-free option, try gluten-free pasta like quinoa or rice pasta. Whole wheat pasta is also a healthier alternative.
Chicken: Cooked chicken is essential for this salad. Rotisserie chicken works great for convenience, but feel free to use leftover roasted or grilled chicken. For a vegetarian version, consider using chickpeas or tofu.
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice crunch and flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, turkey bacon is a good substitute. For a completely meat-free option, you can use smoked paprika to mimic that smoky flavor.
Dill: Fresh dill lends a bright taste but can be replaced with dried dill in smaller quantities if fresh isn’t available. Alternatively, you might enjoy parsley or chives for a different flavor profile.
Ranch Dressing: While ranch dressing is classic here, you can switch it out for Greek yogurt with some herbs for a lighter taste. Alternatively, try a vinaigrette for a tangy twist!
How do I properly cool the pasta for the salad?
Cooling pasta is crucial to prevent it from cooking further and becoming mushy. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente as per package directions.
- Drain the pasta and immediately run cold water over it while stirring. This rapidly cools it down.
- Once cooled, shake out excess water gently and set it aside. You want the pasta to be cool, but not wet!
Taking the time to cool your pasta properly makes all the difference in the texture of your salad. Plus, it helps the other ingredients stay fresh and tasty when mixed in!
How to Make Simple Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 8 ounces rotini or fusilli pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (or more to taste)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pasta salad takes about 15 minutes of prep time plus an additional 30 minutes to chill in the refrigerator. In total, you’ll need around 45 minutes to make and enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente—this usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water until it’s cooled down. Set it aside in a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
In the bowl with the cooled pasta, add the shredded or diced chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped dill. Stir everything together gently to combine all the tasty ingredients!
3. Dress the Salad:
Now, take the ranch dressing and drizzle it over the pasta mixture in the bowl. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated with the creamy dressing. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste, and adjust as needed for flavor!
4. Chill and Serve:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps the flavors blend beautifully! Once chilled, give it one last gentle toss; then serve your pasta salad cold or at room temperature. If you like, you can garnish it with a bit more fresh dill on top. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While rotini or fusilli works great for holding onto the dressing, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, like penne or shells. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type for perfect al dente results!
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Dill?
No worries! If you don’t have fresh dill, you can substitute it with dried dill, but use less—about 1 teaspoon should do the trick. Alternatively, fresh parsley or chives can add a similar freshness to the salad.
How Long Will Leftovers Last?
This pasta salad is good in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To maintain the best flavor, store it in an airtight container. If it seems dry when you’re ready to eat it, just add a little extra ranch dressing to refresh it.
Can I Prepare This Salad Ahead of Time?
Definitely! This salad can be made up to a day in advance. Just prepare it as usual, cover it tightly, and place it in the fridge. The flavors will deepen and enhance overnight, making it even tastier!
