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Chilled Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a dish that effortlessly combines convenience with a burst of flavor. Perfect for picnics, barbecues, or even a simple weeknight dinner, this salad brings together tender rotini pasta, juicy chicken, and crispy bacon, all coated in a creamy ranch dressing that ties the ingredients together beautifully. Its vibrant colors and contrasting textures make it not only appetizing but also visually appealing, ensuring that it stands out on any table.

Cold Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Discover the perfect dish for your next gathering with Chilled Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad. This easy-to-make salad combines rotini pasta, juicy chicken, and crispy bacon, all enveloped in a creamy ranch dressing. Vibrant and customizable, it's suitable for picnics, barbecues, or light dinners. Packed with nutrients and flavor, this dish not only pleases the palate but also adds a colorful touch to any table. Enjoy it as a main course or side, and make it your own with your favorite veggies and protein choices!

Ingredients
  

8 ounces rotini pasta

1 cup cooked chicken, diced

4 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/2 cup green onions, sliced

1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

1 cup ranch dressing

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool. Set aside.

    Prepare the Chicken & Bacon: If you haven't already, cook the bacon until crispy. Once cooked, let it cool, then crumble it into small pieces. Use pre-cooked chicken or roast some beforehand and dice it into bite-sized pieces.

      Mix the Base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled rotini pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, sliced green onions, and chopped parsley.

        Dress the Salad: In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and olive oil until smooth. Pour over the pasta mixture and gently toss until everything is well-coated. Add salt and pepper to taste.

          Chill & Serve: Cover the salad with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled.

            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | 4-6 servings