Chicken Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe

Chicken Ranch Pasta Salad is a delightful and refreshing dish that's perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple family meal. This recipe combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, fresh vegetables, and a creamy ranch dressing for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and full of vibrant ingredients, this salad is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe!

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Ingredients:

• 2 cups rotini or penne pasta
• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• ½ cup red bell pepper, diced
• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• ½ cup bacon bits (optional)
• 1 cup ranch dressing
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
• Drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

• If you don't have pre-cooked chicken, cook 2 medium chicken breasts in a skillet over medium heat with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper until fully cooked (about 6-8 minutes per side). Let cool and dice into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3: Chop the Vegetables

• While the pasta is cooking, chop the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, and red onion.

Step 4: Mix the Ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped parsley, and bacon bits (if using).
• Pour the ranch dressing over the mixture and toss everything together until well coated.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

• Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
• Before serving, give the salad a good stir and add a bit more ranch dressing if it seems dry.

Cooking Note:

For the best flavor, use a high-quality ranch dressing. If you prefer homemade, you can make your own ranch dressing by mixing mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, dried parsley, and salt to taste.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Chicken Ranch Pasta Salad as a main dish for a light lunch or dinner. It also makes a great side dish for grilled meats at barbecues. Pair it with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips:

1. Make-Ahead: This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving and add more dressing if needed.
2. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preference. Bell peppers, olives, and avocados are great additions.
3. Protein Options: You can substitute the chicken with turkey, ham, or even tofu for a different twist.
4. Cheese Variations: Try adding different types of cheese like feta or mozzarella for a unique flavor.
5. Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs like dill, basil, or cilantro can add an extra burst of flavor to your salad.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Sodium: 700mg

Conclusion:

Chicken Ranch Pasta Salad is a versatile and delicious dish that's perfect for any occasion. With its combination of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy ranch dressing, it's sure to please any crowd. Easy to prepare and customizable to your taste, this salad is a great addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy this delightful salad with family and friends, and savor every bite!

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