Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

This hearty Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad has become my go-to dish for potlucks and family gatherings because it never fails to impress. The creamy ranch dressing coats every bite of pasta, while the combination of crispy bacon, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

I first made this pasta salad for a neighborhood barbecue when I needed something substantial that wouldn't wilt in the summer heat. It was devoured within minutes, and now it's requested at every outdoor gathering we attend.

Ingredients

• Short pasta: Fresh tomatoes and pasta provide a solid foundation with contrasting textures
• Thick cut bacon: Adds smoky crispness that elevates the entire dish
• Cooked chicken: Use rotisserie chicken to save time without sacrificing flavor
• Cherry tomatoes: Choose ripe ones for bursts of juicy sweetness
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with color and fresh herbaceous notes
• Thinly sliced onion: Provides a mild bite that balances the creaminess
• Shredded parmesan: Select freshly grated for maximum flavor impact
• Ranch seasoning: The convenience of a packet delivers consistent flavor every time
• Mayonnaise sour cream and milk: Create a creamy base that clings perfectly to the pasta
• Optional fresh herbs: Take the ranch flavor to the next level with garden-fresh intensity

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta:

Boil the pasta in generously salted water until just al dente according to package directions. This typically takes 8-10 minutes depending on the pasta shape. Be careful not to overcook as the pasta will continue to absorb moisture from the dressing. Immediately drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool the pasta quickly.

Prepare the Dressing:

In a medium bowl whisk together mayonnaise sour cream milk and ranch seasoning packet until completely smooth. Start with the lesser amount of milk and gradually add more to achieve your desired consistency. Remember that the dressing will thicken slightly when chilled and will also be absorbed by the pasta over time.

Assemble the Salad:

In a large serving bowl combine the cooled pasta cooked bacon chicken tomatoes parsley onion and parmesan. Gently fold the ingredients together being careful not to break the pasta. Pour about two thirds of the prepared dressing over the mixture and toss until everything is evenly coated.

Chill and Serve:

Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving stir again and add remaining dressing as needed since the pasta will have absorbed some of the initial dressing. Garnish with additional fresh parsley and parmesan for a beautiful presentation.

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The star ingredient in this pasta salad is undeniably the bacon. I learned through much experimentation that thick-cut bacon works best as it maintains its texture and doesn't get lost among the other ingredients. My family has a running joke about how a few extra pieces of bacon need to be cooked because mysteriously some always disappears between cooking and adding to the salad.

Make-Ahead Tips

This pasta salad can be partially prepped in advance to save time on busy days. Cook the pasta bacon and chicken up to two days ahead and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The dressing can also be made a day ahead and kept refrigerated. When ready to serve simply combine all ingredients and add the dressing.

Perfect Substitutions

This recipe welcomes customization based on what you have available. Try these tested alternatives:

• Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a tangier lighter dressing
• Rotini bow tie or penne pasta all work beautifully in this recipe
• Turkey bacon offers a leaner option without sacrificing too much flavor
• Add diced avocado cucumber or bell peppers for extra freshness and nutrition

Serving Suggestions

While delicious on its own this pasta salad pairs wonderfully with grilled proteins like burgers steaks or chicken. For a complete summer spread serve alongside fresh fruit watermelon slices and a light green salad. If serving as a main dish consider adding crusty bread and a simple green side salad to round out the meal.

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Recipe Questions & Answers

→ How do I keep the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions. Rinsing it with cool water after cooking helps maintain its texture.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but don’t prepare it more than 24 hours in advance. To maintain freshness, toss it with dressing just before serving.

→ What kind of bacon works best for this pasta?

Thick-cut bacon is ideal as it holds its crispiness and adds a flavorful crunch to the dish.

→ How can I adjust the dressing's consistency?

Whisk in more milk gradually to thin the dressing to your desired consistency while maintaining its creamy flavor.

→ Can I substitute ingredients in this recipe?

Yes, you can swap ingredients like shredded chicken for rotisserie chicken, or use cherry tomatoes instead of quartered tomatoes.