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As the warm months approach, the allure of potluck gatherings and outdoor picnics becomes increasingly irresistible. One dish that consistently steals the spotlight at these events is pasta salad. Versatile and easy to prepare, pasta salads are a staple during summer months, offering a refreshing complement to grilled meats and other hearty dishes. Among the myriad of pasta salad variations, the Creamy Cold Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad stands out for its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture.

Cold Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta

Get ready to impress at your next summer gathering with a delicious and refreshing Creamy Cold Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad. This dish is easy to make and combines rotini pasta with savory chicken, crispy bacon, and fresh vegetables, all tossed in a creamy ranch dressing. Perfect for potlucks or picnics, this flavorful salad is a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will love. Discover how to create this delightful masterpiece that will elevate your summer meals.
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Ingredients
  

8 oz (about 2 cups) rotini pasta

1 cup cooked chicken breast, either shredded or diced

4 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy and crumbled

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup cucumber, diced

½ cup red onion, finely chopped

½ cup ranch dressing

½ cup sour cream

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring approximately 4 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Add the rotini pasta along with a generous pinch of salt. Cook according to the package instructions until the pasta reaches an al dente texture, which usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse under cold water to halt the cooking process and cool it down.

    Prep the Ingredients: While the pasta is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and cook until they become crispy. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain and cool. Then crumble the bacon into small pieces. Meanwhile, prepare the cherry tomatoes by halving them, dice the cucumber, and finely chop the red onion; set all the prepped vegetables aside.

      Make the Dressing: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the ranch dressing and sour cream. Add the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk the mixture together until it becomes smooth and well-blended. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning as needed.

        Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta with the shredded chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, and chopped red onion. Make sure all ingredients are evenly distributed.

          Mix it Up: Drizzle the prepared ranch dressing over the pasta mixture. Gently toss the ingredients together with a spatula or pair of tongs to ensure that everything is evenly coated in the creamy dressing.

            Chill: Cover the bowl tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the salad to chill for at least 30 minutes, which will help the flavors meld together beautifully.

              Serve: When ready to serve, give the pasta salad a quick stir to redistribute the dressing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Enjoy your creamy, indulgent pasta salad!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 4-6