Description

This is the pasta salad that’s going to become legendary at every potluck, barbecue, and family gathering you bring it to. Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is basically what happens when all your favorite comfort food flavors decide to crash a summer picnic and make everything better. We’re talking tender chunks of seasoned chicken, crispy bacon bits that add that perfect smoky crunch, al dente pasta that holds onto all the good stuff, fresh vegetables for color and crunch, and the most incredible creamy ranch dressing that ties everything together like edible magic. This isn’t your sad, mayo-heavy pasta salad from the grocery store deli — this is the kind of pasta salad that disappears faster than you can make it and has people asking for the recipe before they’ve even finished their first bite.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pasta Base:

1 lb rotini, penne, or bowtie pasta (shapes that hold dressing well)
2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast (or use rotisserie for shortcuts)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bacon Glory:

1 lb thick-cut bacon, chopped
Extra crispy is the goal here

For the Fresh Vegetables:

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 large cucumber, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1/2 red onion, finely diced
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, cubed or shredded
1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped (optional but amazing)

For the Ranch Dressing:

1 cup mayonnaise (use the good stuff)
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup buttermilk
2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet ranch dressing mix (or make your own)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

1 cup frozen peas (thawed)
Sliced avocado (add just before serving)
Hard-boiled eggs, chopped
Sunflower seeds for extra crunch
Different cheeses like feta or blue cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Get That Pasta Perfect

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.

Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm to the bite).

Drain and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process.

Drizzle with a little olive oil and toss to prevent sticking. Set aside to cool completely.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken Right

Season chicken breasts with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temp hits 165°F.

Let rest for 10 minutes, then cut into bite-sized cubes.

Pro tip: Rotisserie chicken works great here — just shred it up and you’re done!

Step 3: Bacon Time (The Best Time)

Cook chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until crispy and golden.

Transfer to paper towels to drain, but save about 2 tbsp of that liquid gold bacon fat.

You can drizzle just a tiny bit of the bacon fat into the salad for extra flavor (optional but amazing).

Step 4: Make That Incredible Ranch

In a large bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, buttermilk, and lemon juice until smooth.

Add minced garlic, ranch packet, fresh parsley, and chives.

Season with salt and pepper, then taste and adjust — more lemon? More herbs? Make it yours.

The dressing should be creamy but pourable. Add more buttermilk if too thick.

Step 5: Prep All the Good Stuff

Halve your cherry tomatoes and let them drain on paper towels for a few minutes.

Dice cucumber, bell pepper, and red onion into bite-sized pieces.

Cube or shred your cheese — whatever makes you happier.

Chop your fresh herbs and have everything ready for the grand assembly.

Step 6: The Grand Assembly

In the largest bowl you have, combine the cooled pasta, chicken, and most of the bacon (save some for topping).

Add tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, and cheese.

Pour the ranch dressing over everything and toss gently but thoroughly until everything is coated.

Add peas if using, and fold in gently.

Step 7: Let the Magic Happen

Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, but overnight is even better.

The flavors meld and get amazing as it sits.

Before serving, give it a good stir and add more dressing if it looks dry.

Top with remaining bacon, fresh herbs, and maybe some extra cheese because why not?

Notes

Perfect alongside grilled burgers, hot dogs, or barbecue at summer cookouts.

Great as a light lunch on its own, especially with some crusty bread on the side.

Pairs beautifully with corn on the cob and watermelon for the ultimate summer spread.

Serve in a big, pretty bowl and watch it disappear at potluck dinners.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: ~485 kcal
Carbohydrates: ~35g
Protein: ~26g