Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
A creamy and flavorful pasta salad featuring chicken, bacon, and fresh vegetables, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pasta & Protein
- 12 ounce spiral pasta provides a pleasing texture
- 3 cups chopped rotisserie chicken adds protein and moisture
- 6 pieces thick sliced bacon, diced and cooked offers crunch and depth of flavor
Vegetables & Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese contributes creaminess and flavor
- 1 cup chopped tomato or cherry tomatoes adds freshness and juiciness
- 1 cup shredded zucchini brings moisture and a mild taste
Dressing
- 1 pack Ranch Dressing introduces a rich, zesty base
- 1 cup mayonnaise adds creaminess
- ¾ cup buttermilk creates a smooth consistency
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper enhances overall flavor
- ¼ teaspoon paprika adds warmth and slight smokiness
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder provides subtle aromatic notes
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F.
- In a small bowl, combine Ranch dressing, mayonnaise, buttermilk, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder. Mix well until smooth.
- If using uncooked chicken, season lightly with salt and pepper, drizzle with olive oil, and bake in a dish for 30 to 45 minutes until it reaches 165°F. Chop into small cubes.
- Cook diced bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crisp.
- Prepare spiral pasta according to package instructions, drain, and rinse under cold water.
Mixing
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, chopped chicken, shredded zucchini, chopped tomatoes, crispy bacon, and shredded cheddar cheese.
- Pour the Ranch dressing mixture over the pasta and mix until evenly coated.
- Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours before serving.
Notes
For the best results, ensure the pasta is rinsed well, let the cooked chicken cool slightly, and use thick-cut bacon. Adjust seasonings in the dressing to taste. Stir gently before serving leftovers.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 25gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
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