Chicken Ranch Pasta Salad

This simple chicken ranch pasta salad recipe is loaded with bacon and a delicious homemade ranch dressing. It's ideal for BBQs or potlucks and is ready in only 30 minutes!

📝 Ingredients

• 3 cups uncooked fusilli or rotini pasta
• 5 strips bacon (cut into small pieces)
• 1/2 medium red onion (chopped)
• 2 cups shredded cooked/rotisserie chicken
• 2 cups grape or cherry tomatoes (cut into halves)
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing ((use my recipe or bottled))
• Fresh parsley (chopped, to taste (optional))

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1If making my ranch dressing, do that first and then keep it in the fridge until you're ready to use it.
2. 2Boil a large, salted pot of water for the pasta. Cook according to package directions and rinse the pasta under cool water once it's cooked. Let it drain thoroughly.
3. 3Meanwhile, cut the bacon up into small pieces (I use kitchen shears to make it easy). Cook until crispy and then transfer it to a paper towel lined plate.
4. 4Prep your onion, chicken, tomatoes, and parsley (if using), and add them to a large salad bowl. Add the pasta and bacon when they're ready to go.
5. 5Toss with the dressing (start with 1/2 cup and add more if needed) and season with salt & pepper if needed. Serve immediately or chill first.