This Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad is a fun dish packed with tasty ingredients like juicy chicken, crispy bacon, fresh tomatoes, and creamy ranch dressing. It’s as colorful as it is delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pasta: Use rotini or elbow macaroni, which hold the dressing well. You can swap with penne or fusilli if you prefer a different shape.
Chicken: I like using cooked chicken breast for its lean protein. Feel free to use rotisserie chicken to save time or even leftover turkey!
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds flavor and crunch. For a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too. You could even skip it for a vegetarian version or use nuts instead.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar is my go-to for its sharp taste. However, mozzarella or pepper jack can add a nice twist!
Dressings: I enjoy the creamy ranch dressing, but feel free to swap it with Greek yogurt for a lighter take. Adding a bit of mustard can also give it a nice kick!
How Do I Ensure My Pasta Salad Isn’t Soggy?
To keep your pasta salad from getting soggy, follow these steps:
- Cook pasta just until al dente. Avoid overcooking, as it will absorb more dressing.
- Rinse the pasta under cold water after draining. This stops the cooking process and cools it down quickly.
- Combine ingredients just before serving or chill it for a shorter time if you prefer a fresher taste.
These tips will help keep your salad light and enjoyable! You can also adjust the amount of dressing based on your preference.
Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) rotini or elbow macaroni pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced or shredded
- 6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (scallions)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Lettuce leaves for serving or garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes to prepare this delicious pasta salad. After preparation, let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together. So, total time will be around 45 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente—just slightly firm. Once done, drain the pasta and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and cool it down. Make sure to drain it well so it doesn’t get watery!
2. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Toss everything gently to mix them up.
3. Preparing the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, lemon juice, garlic powder, and a bit of salt and pepper until the dressing is smooth and creamy.
4. Combining Dressing and Pasta:
Pour the dressing over your pasta mixture. Toss gently to make sure everything is evenly coated in that delicious dressing!
5. Chilling the Salad:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, and pop it in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. Chilling helps the flavors combine beautifully.
6. Serving Up:
Once chilled, give the salad a good stir. Serve it in bowls, optionally on a bed of lettuce leaves for a nice presentation. You can also garnish with extra green onions or bacon bits if you like. Enjoy your tasty Chicken Club Pasta Salad!
FAQ for Easy Chicken Club Pasta Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any cooked chicken works great in this salad. Just ensure it’s diced or shredded for easy mixing.
How Can I Make This Pasta Salad Healthier?
To make it healthier, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt, and add more veggies like bell peppers or cucumbers for extra crunch and nutrients.
Can I Prepare This Salad in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day ahead! Just keep it covered in the fridge. If the pasta absorbs too much dressing, add a little more dressing or a splash of lemon juice before serving to freshen it up.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Stir it well before serving, as the dressing may settle. Enjoy it cold or at room temperature!
