Are you craving a quick, healthy, and utterly delicious dinner? Look no further! This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. It's packed with flavour, combining juicy chicken, crispy bacon, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy ranch dressing all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it ideal for both beginner cooks and seasoned chefs seeking a simple yet satisfying meal. Get ready to enjoy a homemade dish that's as tasty as it is convenient!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cooked and cubed
- 6 ounces bacon, cooked and crumbled
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, or your favorite shape)
- 1 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process. Set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Mushrooms
While the pasta is cooking, you can prepare the chicken and mushrooms. If you haven't already cooked the chicken, you can pan-fry, bake, or grill it until cooked through. For the mushrooms, simply sauté them in a pan with a little olive oil until tender and slightly browned. This adds a delicious depth of flavor to the salad.
Step 3: Assemble the Salad
In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cubed chicken, crumbled bacon, sautéed mushrooms, ranch dressing, cheddar cheese, and green onions. Gently toss everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad immediately or chill for later. This salad tastes great both warm and cold, making it a versatile option for any occasion.
Tips and Variations:
- Add some crunch: Toasted pecans or walnuts would add a delightful crunch to the salad.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the bacon and chicken, and add chickpeas or black beans for extra protein.
- Customize your veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or shredded carrots.
- Homemade Ranch: For a healthier option, try making your own ranch dressing. Numerous recipes are readily available online.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. It's always best to use a nutrition calculator for precise values.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 25-30 grams
- Fat: Approximately 20-25 grams
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45 grams
This Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a fantastic example of a quick dinner idea that doesn't compromise on taste or nutrition. It’s a healthy meal option suitable for busy weeknights, casual lunches, or potlucks. The ease of preparation, combined with its delicious flavor profile, makes it a recipe you'll want to add to your regular cooking repertoire. Enjoy!