Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

This hearty Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad has been my go-to dish for potlucks and family gatherings for years. The combination of creamy ranch dressing, crispy bacon, and tender chicken creates an irresistible pasta salad that disappears within minutes whenever I serve it.

I first made this pasta salad for a neighborhood barbecue last summer, and it was such a hit that three families asked for the recipe before the evening ended. Now it's requested at nearly every gathering I attend.

Ingredients

Pasta Salad

• 16 oz short pasta uncooked: Choose rotini, penne, or bowties that catch the dressing in their crevices
• 8-10 slices thick cut bacon: Opt for quality bacon for the best flavor impact
• 2 cups chicken shredded or cubed: Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for convenience
• 10 ounces tomatoes quartered: Cherry or grape tomatoes provide sweet bursts of flavor
• 2-3 tablespoons chopped parsley: Fresh herbs elevate the entire dish
• 1/4 cup thin sliced onion: Red onion adds color and mild bite
• 1 cup shredded parmesan: Freshly grated provides the best flavor and texture
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Freshly ground makes a difference

Ranch Dressing

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise: Full fat creates the creamiest dressing
• 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess to balance the richness
• 2/3 cup whole milk plus up to 1/3 cup more as desired: Adjusts the consistency
• 1 packet ranch seasoning: The flavor foundation of this dish
• Optional fresh herbs: parsley and dill for brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Step 1:

Boil pasta according to package directions until perfectly al dente. This typically takes 8-10 minutes depending on your pasta shape. Once done, immediately drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. This prevents your pasta from becoming mushy in the salad. Toss with a small drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.

Prepare the Dressing

Step 2:

Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, and ranch seasoning packet in a medium bowl. Start with 2/3 cup milk and add more if you prefer a thinner consistency. The dressing will thicken slightly as it chills, so make it a touch thinner than your desired final consistency. Add the optional fresh herbs for extra flavor if using.

Assemble the Salad

Step 3:

Combine cooled pasta, crumbled bacon, chicken, tomatoes, parsley, sliced onion, parmesan, and pepper in a large bowl. Gently fold everything together to distribute ingredients evenly. Pour about two thirds of the dressing over the salad and toss until everything is well coated. Reserve the remaining dressing.

Chill and Serve

Step 4:

Cover the pasta salad and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Just before serving, assess the texture as pasta tends to absorb dressing. Add remaining dressing as needed, toss again, and garnish with additional parsley and parmesan for a fresh presentation.

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The bacon truly makes this dish special. I learned from my grandmother to cook bacon low and slow in the oven for the perfect crispy texture. The smell of bacon cooking always brings my family running to the kitchen, asking when dinner will be ready.

Storage Tips

This pasta salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. The flavors actually improve after a few hours as they meld together. I recommend reserving some of the dressing to refresh the salad before serving leftovers, as the pasta will continue to absorb moisture during storage. Give it a good stir and add a splash of fresh dressing to revive its creamy texture.

Make It Your Own

Feel free to customize this pasta salad to suit your preferences. Add diced bell peppers for crunch and color, swap in different cheese options like cheddar or mozzarella, or include avocado chunks for creaminess. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and bacon and add extra vegetables like cucumber, broccoli, or artichoke hearts. The ranch dressing works beautifully with virtually any mix of ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile pasta salad shines as both a side dish and main course. Serve alongside grilled burgers or chicken at your next barbecue. Pack it for picnics or potlucks as it travels well. For a complete meal, pair with a simple green salad and crusty bread. During summer months, I love serving this chilled pasta salad on the patio with tall glasses of lemonade for a refreshing dinner that requires minimal cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I make the dressing for this dish?

Whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, milk, and a packet of ranch seasoning. Adjust thickness with more milk as desired.

→ Can I prepare this pasta dish ahead of time?

Yes, but do not make it more than 24 hours in advance to avoid soggy vegetables and overly absorbed dressing. Ideally, prepare it the morning of serving.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like rotini, penne, or bowties holds the dressing well and maintains texture when chilled.

→ How can I prevent the pasta from becoming mushy?

Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions, then rinse it with cool water to stop the cooking process.

→ Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Ingredients like diced bell peppers, cucumbers, or shredded carrots can add crunch and freshness.