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As the weather warms up, our cravings often shift towards lighter, refreshing meals that not only satisfy but also invigorate the senses. One such dish that perfectly embodies this spirit is the Chilled Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Delight. This pasta salad is not just a meal; it's a celebration of flavors and textures that come together to create a delightful dining experience, whether at a summer barbecue, picnic, or potluck gathering.

Cold Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Discover the perfect dish for warm days with our Chilled Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Delight! This refreshing pasta salad combines tender pasta, savory rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, and vibrant veggies, all coated in creamy ranch dressing. Quick to prepare and ideal for barbecues or potlucks, this recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition. Enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends, perfect for any summer gathering!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups cooked rotini or penne pasta

1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or diced (preferably grilled or rotisserie for added flavor)

6 slices of crispy bacon, crumbled into small pieces

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved for a burst of juiciness

1 cup cucumber, diced for crunch

1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced for a bite

1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade for a personal touch)

1/4 cup Greek yogurt (to enhance creaminess)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for a fresh garnish)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water, then introduce the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until it reaches an al dente texture. Once done, drain and rinse the pasta under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it down. Set aside.

    Prepare the Chicken: If starting with raw chicken, season it with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs (such as Italian seasoning). Grill or bake until fully cooked, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Allow the chicken to cool before shredding or dicing it into bite-sized pieces.

      Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon slices until they reach a crispy texture. After cooking, remove from the heat and let them cool slightly before crumbling them into small, manageable pieces.

        Mix the Dressing: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and Greek yogurt until well combined. Stir in the garlic powder and onion powder, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

          Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooled pasta, shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and thinly sliced red onion.

            Add the Dressing: Pour the prepared ranch dressing mixture over the combined ingredients. Toss gently to ensure every element is well-coated and mixed thoroughly.

              Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes—this pause lets the flavors meld beautifully.

                Serve: After chilling, give the pasta salad a gentle stir to re-mix any settled ingredients. Transfer the salad to a serving dish, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your refreshing Cold Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time (including chill time): 1 hour | Servings: 4