Name: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 1 pound penne pasta; 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded; 1/2 pound bacon, cooked and chopped; 1 cup ranch dressing; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/4 cup red onion, diced

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck? Look no further than this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad. This simple yet flavorful dish is packed with protein, making it a satisfying and filling option for the whole family.

To make this recipe, you’ll need a few pantry staples like penne pasta, ranch dressing, and mayonnaise. You’ll also need cooked chicken, bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion. Once you have all your ingredients, simply cook the pasta, combine the dressing, and toss everything together.

The creamy ranch dressing complements the savory bacon and juicy chicken, while the fresh vegetables add a crisp and refreshing texture. This salad is so easy to make that you can whip it up in just a few minutes. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover cooked chicken.

If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap out the regular mayonnaise for a Greek yogurt-based mayonnaise. You can also add more vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. And for a spicier kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.

No matter how you choose to customize it, this Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is sure to be a hit. So give it a try and let us know what you think!

Questions I often get asked about this recipe:

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, but penne is a good choice because it holds up well to the dressing.

Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
Yes, you can use pre-cooked bacon for convenience.

Can I use grilled chicken instead of shredded chicken?
Yes, grilled chicken can be used as a substitute for shredded chicken.

How long does this recipe take to make?
This recipe can be made in approximately 30 minutes.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes, you can freeze this recipe for up to 3 months.

Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe is not spicy, but you can add hot sauce to the dressing for a spicier flavor.

What is the best way to serve this recipe?
This recipe can be served as a main course or a side dish.

What you need to make Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad:

1 pound penne pasta

1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded

1/2 pound bacon, cooked and chopped

1 cup ranch dressing

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup cucumber, diced

1/4 cup red onion, diced

How to make it:

Cook the pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Combine dressing: In a large bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and Parmesan cheese.

Add ingredients: Add the cooked chicken, bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion to the pasta.

Toss and serve: Pour the dressing over the pasta and toss to coat. Serve immediately or chill for later.

Tips:

Use high-quality ingredients: For the best flavor, use high-quality ingredients, such as freshly cooked chicken and good-quality bacon.

Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a spicier salad, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the dressing.

Make it ahead: This salad can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it a great option for potlucks or busy weeknights.

Latest Reviews:

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a total crowd-pleaser! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the texture is amazing. I love the combination of creamy ranch, crispy bacon, and tender chicken. Definitely a keeper! Pearl A.

I made this recipe for a potluck, and it was a huge hit. Everyone loved the rich, savory flavors and the satisfying crunch of the bacon. It’s so easy to make, too. I’ll definitely be making this again! Alison S.

This is my new go-to summer salad. The fresh vegetables and creamy dressing make it so refreshing. The addition of bacon adds a nice smoky flavor. I highly recommend this recipe! Steve P.

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