Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad – Creamy, Crunchy & Crowd-Pleasing!
Looking for the ultimate crowd-pleasing meal that’s just as good for weeknight dinners as it is for summer BBQs or meal prep lunches? Meet your new favorite: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad. This creamy, savory, and protein-packed salad brings together everything we love in comfort food – tender pasta, crispy bacon, juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and, of course, that rich ranch flavor!
It’s bold, it’s fresh, and it’s ridiculously easy to throw together. The best part? You can customize it endlessly!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 ounces pasta (use gluten-free pasta if needed – rotini or penne work best for holding dressing)
- 6 cups romaine lettuce, sliced
- 2 cups cooked chicken, sliced or shredded (grilled ranch-marinated chicken adds extra flavor)
- 8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 1 avocado, sliced for creaminess
- 1 cup tomato, diced – adds freshness and color
- ½ cup cheddar cheese, shredded or diced – for that classic flavor pairing
- ½ cup ranch dressing – homemade or your favorite store-bought
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool it quickly and stop the cooking. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta, romaine, chicken, bacon, avocado, tomatoes, and cheddar.
- Pour the ranch dressing over the salad and gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
- Serve immediately, or chill for 30 minutes if you like it cold!
Optional Mix-ins (Spice It Up Your Way!):
- ¼ cup salsa verde for a zesty kick
- ¼ cup red or pickled onions for bite and color
- ¼ cup sliced jalapeños – fresh or pickled for spice
- More veggies! Try bell peppers, cucumbers, corn, or shredded carrots
This salad is as versatile as it is delicious!
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Salad:
- Protein-packed: With chicken, bacon, and cheese, it’s super satisfying
- Customizable: Add your favorite ingredients or make it low-carb by skipping pasta
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It holds up well in the fridge for 2-3 days
- Great for Gatherings: Make a big batch and serve at potlucks, BBQs, or as a full dinner
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 341
- Fat: 29g (Saturated 8g)
- Cholesterol: 57mg
- Sodium: 438mg
- Carbohydrates: 26g (Fiber 3g, Sugars 2g)
- Protein: 17g
Tips for Best Results:
- Cool your pasta completely before mixing to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh.
- Use fresh ranch or make your own for elevated flavor.
- Want it lighter? Use Greek yogurt ranch or a drizzle of olive oil and lemon.
This chicken bacon ranch pasta salad has all the flavors of a cozy comfort dish but is fresh, vibrant, and perfect for any season. It’s sure to become a staple in your rotation.