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–+ servings
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Creamy Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad for Summer BBQs

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a flavorful, high-protein dish perfect for summer BBQs and meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Salads
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta Salad
  • 8 oz cooked elbow noodles Use high-protein noodles like Banza for added protein.
  • 6 slices chopped bacon bits Cook until crispy for best flavor.
  • 2 cups cooked diced chicken Rotisserie chicken works well.
  • 1 small finely diced red onion Adjust to taste.
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls Shredded mozzarella is a good substitute.
For the Dressing
  • 1 cup Greek yogurt ranch dressing Protein-rich dressing.
  • 1/2 cup plain whole milk Greek yogurt Thickens the dressing.
  • 1/4 cup cottage cheese or mayo Adds creaminess.
  • 1/4 cup milk Adjust thickness as preferred.
  • 1 tbls seasonings Lemon juice, vinegar, dill, parsley, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper.
Optional Add-ins
  • 1 cup green peas Adds sweetness.
  • 1 cup halved grape tomatoes Brings fresh juiciness.
  • 1 medium diced avocado Adds healthy fats.
  • 2 tbls green onions Enhances flavor and crunch.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Colander
  • whisk

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow noodles, cooking as per package directions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain and cool.
  2. Crisp the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon bits until golden and crispy (10-15 minutes). Transfer to paper towels to drain excess grease.
  3. Make the Dressing: In a bowl, combine Greek yogurt, cottage cheese (or mayo), milk, fresh lemon juice, vinegar, and seasonings. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
  4. Combine All Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix cooled noodles, bacon, chicken, red onion, and mozzarella. Optionally add green peas or grape tomatoes.
  5. Toss with Dressing: Pour dressing over the pasta salad mixture and gently toss until well-coated.
  6. Serve or Refrigerate: Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes to meld flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 350mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 8IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Use high-protein noodles for added nutrition. Adjust seasoning and dressing to taste before serving.

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