A simple recipe for a creamy, flavorful pasta salad featuring chicken, bacon, and ranch dressing, perfect for potlucks or quick meals.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:15 min
Total Time:35 min
Yield:6 servings
Category:Side Dish
Method:No Bake
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound rotini or bowtie pasta
2 cups cooked, shredded or cubed chicken breast
6 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 cup mayonnaise
1/2 cup buttermilk
1 tablespoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon dried dill weed
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup chopped celery (optional)
1/4 cup chopped green onion
Instructions
Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse immediately with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
While the pasta cooks, prepare the ranch dressing base by whisking together the mayonnaise, buttermilk, parsley, dill weed, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, shredded cheddar cheese, celery (if using), and green onion.
Pour the prepared ranch dressing mixture over the pasta and mix gently until all ingredients are evenly coated.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld.
Notes
You can substitute rotini with penne or farfalle pasta shapes.
For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of some of the mayonnaise in the dressing.
Cook the bacon until very crisp so it retains texture in the salad.
This salad tastes best when made at least 4 hours ahead of time.