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Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Fresh Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad for Your Summer BBQ

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a refreshing and crowd-pleasing dish perfect for summer BBQs.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Medium Pasta Shells Consider using quinoa pasta for added protein.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Ranch Dressing Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier option.
For the Protein
  • 2 cups Cooked Chicken (shredded) Leftover chicken makes for easy prep.
  • 1 cup Bacon Bits Feel free to swap in turkey bacon for a lighter choice.
For the Veggies
  • 2 cups Lettuce (shredded) Try spinach if you're feeling adventurous.
  • 1 cup Cherry Tomatoes (halved) Diced bell peppers can be a colorful substitute.
For the Cheese
  • 1 cup Sharp Cheddar Cheese (shredded) Mozzarella can be used for a milder touch.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Boil the Pasta: Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the medium pasta shells and cook for about 8 to 10 minutes or until al dente.
  2. Drain and Cool: Once cooked, carefully drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process.
  3. Combine Pasta and Dressing: In a large mixing bowl, add the warm pasta and pour in the creamy ranch dressing. Toss gently to coat.
  4. Add Chicken and Veggies: Fold in the shredded cooked chicken, shredded lettuce, halved cherry tomatoes, and sharp cheddar cheese.
  5. Sprinkle in the Bacon: Sprinkle the crispy bacon bits over the salad and gently fold them in.
  6. Chill Before Serving: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: After chilling, give the salad a final stir before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 33gProtein: 20gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This pasta salad is perfect for gatherings, and the flavors develop even more overnight.

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