Dinner

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe

Name: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound pasta; 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, cubed; 1/3 cup red onion, diced; 12 ounces bacon, cooked and crumbled; 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 2 tablespoons chives, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons green onion, thinly sliced; 1 cup sour cream; 1 to 1 1/2 cups half and half (use 1 cup first, then extra 1/2 cup to thin if needed); 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 ounce packet ranch seasoning; 1 tablespoon dried dill; Kosher salt, to taste; Fresh cracked pepper, to taste

Byanna orden January 9, 2026January 9, 2026

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Introduction

This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a creamy, flavorful dish perfect for potlucks, picnics, or hearty lunches. Packed with rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh veggies, it comes together quickly in about 25 minutes. The ranch dressing ties everything together with a rich, tangy finish.

Ingredients

1 pound pasta
1 cup sour cream
1 to 1 1/2 cups half and half
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 ounce packet of ranch seasoning
1 tablespoon dried dill
Kosher salt
Fresh cracked pepper
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
8 ounces cubed sharp cheddar cheese
1/3 cup diced red onion
12 ounces bacon, cooked and crumbled
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
2 tablespoons thinly sliced chives
2 tablespoons thinly sliced green onion

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta just until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking, then set aside to cool.
Step 2: In a small bowl, combine sour cream, 1 cup half and half, mayonnaise, ranch seasoning, dried dill, kosher salt, and fresh cracked pepper. Whisk together until smooth and creamy. If the dressing thickens after chilling, thin it out with the remaining half and half as needed. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 3: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, shredded rotisserie chicken, cubed cheddar cheese, diced red onion, cooked and crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, chopped parsley, sliced chives, and green onions.
Step 4: Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss gently until everything is evenly coated. Serve immediately or chill before serving for best flavor.

Tips & Variations

Use tri-color rotini pasta for a festive look and extra texture.
Replace bacon with turkey bacon or omit it for a lighter version.
Add diced avocado or cucumber for extra freshness and crunch.
If you prefer a tangier dressing, add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.

Storage

Store the pasta salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best texture, add fresh tomatoes and herbs just before serving if storing leftovers. Reheat is not recommended—serve chilled or at room temperature.

How to Serve

A white oval plate filled with a creamy pasta salad made of short curly pasta tossed in a white creamy dressing with visible herbs. Mixed in are bright orange cubes of cheddar cheese, halved red cherry tomatoes, crispy dark brown bacon pieces, and small bits of purple onion. The salad is garnished with fresh chopped green onions and parsley scattered on top. Two gold serving spoons are placed on the left side of the plate. The entire scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this pasta salad ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead. Just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve or toss the salad and add extra half and half to loosen the dressing if it thickens in the fridge.