Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Preparation Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

• Chilling Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes

• Servings: 8

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the Pasta Salad

• 12 oz (340 g) rotini pasta

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, cubed

• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets

• 8 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled

• 1 cup cheddar cheese cubes

• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup red onion, finely chopped (optional)

• ½ cup dried cranberries (optional)

For the Creamy Ranch Dressing

• 1 cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup ranch dressing

• 1 tablespoon ranch seasoning

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Fill a large pot with water.

2. Add a little salt and bring to a boil.

3. Add rotini pasta.

4. Cook according to package instructions until al dente.

5. Drain the pasta using a colander.

6. Rinse briefly with cold water to stop the cooking process.

7. Allow the pasta to cool completely.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Use cooked chicken breast.

2. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.

3. If cooking fresh, heat a little olive oil in a skillet.

4. Cook chicken until its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Allow it to cool.

6. Cut into small bite-sized cubes.

Step 3: Prepare the Bacon

1. Cook bacon in a skillet until crispy.

2. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate.

3. Allow it to cool.

4. Crumble into small pieces.

5. Reserve a little bacon for garnish.

Step 4: Prepare the Broccoli

1. Wash broccoli thoroughly.

2. Cut into small florets.

3. Blanch in boiling water for 1–2 minutes if you prefer softer broccoli.

4. Transfer immediately to ice water.

5. Drain and dry thoroughly.

You can also use raw broccoli for extra crunch.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Ranch Dressing

In a medium mixing bowl:

1. Add mayonnaise.

2. Add sour cream.

3. Pour in ranch dressing.

4. Add ranch seasoning.

5. Add lemon juice.

6. Add garlic powder and onion powder.

7. Sprinkle in black pepper and salt.

8. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.

Step 6: Combine Everything

1. Place cooled rotini pasta in a large mixing bowl.

2. Add cubed chicken.

3. Add broccoli florets.

4. Add cheddar cheese cubes.

5. Add shredded cheddar cheese.

6. Add chopped red onion.

7. Add most of the crumbled bacon.

8. Pour the creamy ranch dressing over the ingredients.

9. Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.

Step 7: Chill the Salad

1. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid.

2. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

3. This allows the ranch dressing to soak into the pasta and chicken.

4. Before serving, gently mix again.

5. Add extra ranch dressing if the pasta has absorbed too much sauce.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the pasta salad to a serving bowl.

Top with:

• Extra crispy bacon

• Cheddar cheese

• Fresh broccoli

• A little black pepper

Serve chilled and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Estimated values per serving, based on 8 servings.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Allergy Information: This recipe contains dairy, wheat, and eggs (depending on the mayonnaise and ranch dressing). Check all packaged ingredients for peanut or tree-nut cross-contact warnings.

Helpful Tips for the Best Results

1. Keep pasta firm: Cook rotini al dente so it does not become mushy.

2. Use fresh chicken: Freshly cooked chicken gives the salad excellent flavor.

3. Crispy bacon: Add bacon just before serving to maintain its crunch.

4. Extra creamy: Add 2–3 tablespoons of sour cream or ranch dressing if needed.

5. Fresh vegetables: Use fresh broccoli for a delicious crunchy texture.

6. Make ahead: Prepare the salad a day in advance, but reserve some bacon for serving.

7. Storage: Keep refrigerated in an airtight container and consume within 3–4 days.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious pasta salad pairs wonderfully with:

• Grilled chicken

• BBQ ribs

• Garlic bread

• Grilled vegetables

• Burgers and sandwiches

• Fresh lemonade

Final Result: A beautiful bowl of creamy ranch pasta loaded with juicy chicken, crunchy broccoli, crispy bacon, and delicious cheddar cheese. Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor. Perfect for sharing with family and friends!