Description
Chicken Ranch Pasta Salad is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish combining tender chicken, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh vegetables. Perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick weeknight dinner, this pasta salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser with its delightful blend of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
- 3 cups cooked pasta (rotini or penne)
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup bacon bits
- 1 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to cool.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, diced chicken, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red bell pepper, red onion, shredded cheddar cheese, and bacon bits.
- In a small bowl, mix the ranch dressing, mayonnaise, and fresh dill (if using) until well combined.
- Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise.
- Add extra vegetables like broccoli or avocado for more nutrition.
- This salad can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Salad
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 40mg