Chicken Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe

This Chicken Ranch Pasta Salad is a creamy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a summer picnic, a potluck, or a light and satisfying lunch. Tender pasta, crispy bacon, and juicy chicken are tossed in a creamy ranch dressing with fresh vegetables, creating a delicious and easy-to-make salad that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious pasta salad:

For the Dressing:

• Mayonnaise: Provides a creamy base for the dressing.
• Sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra creaminess.
• Ranch dressing: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade ranch dressing.
• Chives: Chopped, adds a fresh onion flavor and a pop of color.
• Salt and pepper: To taste.

For the Pasta Salad:

• Pasta: Use your favorite type of pasta, such as rigati, penne, rotini, or farfalle.
• Bacon: Chopped and fried until crispy, adds a smoky and salty flavor.
• Cooked chicken breasts: Diced, you can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken for convenience.
• Celery: Chopped, adds a refreshing crunch.
• Black olives: Sliced, adds a salty and briny flavor.
• Cherry tomatoes: Halved, adds juicy sweetness and color.

How to Make Chicken Ranch Pasta Salad

Step 1: Make the Dressing

In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, ranch dressing, chopped chives, salt, and pepper until well combined. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

Transfer the cooked and drained pasta to a large bowl. Add the chopped bacon, diced chicken, chopped celery, sliced black olives, and halved cherry tomatoes. Pour the prepared dressing over the salad and toss well to combine.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the salad for at least 2 hours, or until chilled. This allows the flavors to meld and the salad to become more flavorful. Serve chilled and enjoy!

How to Serve Chicken Ranch Pasta Salad

• Summer Picnic: This Chicken Ranch Pasta Salad is perfect for picnics, barbecues, or potlucks.
• Light Lunch: Enjoy it as a light and satisfying lunch on its own or with a side of crusty bread.
• Side Dish: Serve it as a side dish with your favorite grilled meats, fish, or sandwiches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, but short pasta shapes work best for this salad.

Can I make this salad vegetarian?
Yes, you can omit the chicken or use a vegetarian alternative, such as chickpeas or tofu.

Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the salad a day ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator.

How can I make this salad healthier?
You can use light mayonnaise and sour cream, and reduce the amount of bacon.

There you have it! A delicious and easy-to-make recipe for Chicken Ranch Pasta Salad that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

Print