Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

This simple and delicious Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad recipe is a creamy, flavorful pasta dish that you will love. Perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or quick weeknight dinners, this salad combines crispy turkey bacon, juicy chicken, parmesan cheese, and fresh tomatoes all tossed in a rich ranch dressing. Enjoy it as a side dish or transform it into a full meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready in no time.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of turkey bacon and ranch dressing gives this salad an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a side at barbecues or as a main meal; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This recipe yields 12 servings, making it ideal for potlucks and family gatherings.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will streamline your cooking process and help achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta to the perfect al dente texture.
• Mixing bowl: Allows you to combine all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth dressing by blending the ingredients well.

Ingredients

To make the delicious Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Pasta Salad

• 16 oz short pasta (uncooked)
• 8-10 slices thick cut Turkey Bacon (cooked and cut/crumbled)
• 2 c chicken, shredded or cubed
• 10 ounce tomatoes (quartered)
• 2-3 T chopped parsley
• 1/4 c thin sliced onion
• 1 c shredded parmesan
• 1/2 tsp pepper

For the Dressing

• 1/2 c mayonnaise
• 1/2 c sour cream
• ⅔ c whole milk plus up to 1/3 c or more as desired
• 1 packet ranch seasoning
• optional: 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley and dill

How to Make Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. When ready, drain and rinse with cool water to allow it to cool off.
3. Optionally toss in a touch of olive oil if desired and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Dressing

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, whole milk, ranch seasoning, and pepper.
2. Adjust the thickness of the dressing by adding more milk if desired.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, turkey bacon, chicken, tomatoes, parsley, onions, and parmesan cheese.
2. Toss with about 2/3 of the dressing until everything is well coated.

Step 4: Chill and Serve

1. Cover the salad and chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving.
2. Just before serving, adjust the amount of dressing by adding more as needed.
3. Garnish with additional parsley and extra parmesan if desired.

Enjoy your delightful Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad!

How to Serve Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

This Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a picnic, or just enjoying a family dinner, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

As a Main Dish

• Serve generous portions on plates for a satisfying meal.
• Pair with crusty bread or garlic knots for a complete dinner.

As a Side Dish

• Offer alongside grilled meats or vegetables to complement their flavors.
• Perfect for BBQs and potlucks when paired with other classic sides.

In Individual Bowls

• Portion into small bowls for easy serving at gatherings.
• Add a sprinkle of extra parmesan on top for an appealing presentation.

With Fresh Greens

• Serve over a bed of mixed greens for added freshness and crunch.
• Drizzle with extra ranch dressing for a flavorful twist.

For Meal Prep

• Store in airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Easy to grab-and-go, making it ideal for busy days or picnics.

How to Perfect Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

To ensure your Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose the right pasta: Use short pasta shapes like rotini or penne to hold the dressing well.
• Cool pasta properly: Rinse cooked pasta under cold water to stop the cooking process and keep it firm.
• Adjust the dressing: Feel free to tweak the amount of ranch seasoning based on personal taste; more seasoning can add extra flavor.
• Add veggies: Incorporate chopped bell peppers or cucumbers for added crunch and nutrition.
• Chill before serving: Letting the salad chill enhances the flavors, making it more delicious when served.
• Garnish creatively: Top with fresh herbs or additional cheese just before serving for an appealing look.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Pairing side dishes with your Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Grilled Chicken Skewers: Marinated chicken grilled on skewers adds protein and flavor.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until tender complements the salad nicely.
3. Garlic Bread: This classic side adds buttery flavor and is perfect for scooping up salad bites.
4. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit medley provides a sweet contrast to the savory pasta salad.
5. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw offers crunch and tanginess that balances well with the rich flavors.
6. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil create a light and fresh companion dish.
7. Potato Chips: Crunchy chips add texture and are great for snacking alongside your meal.
8. Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers are always a hit and pair well with pasta dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and tips to avoid them.

• Using overcooked pasta: Overcooking your pasta can lead to a mushy salad. Follow package instructions closely and cook until al dente for the best texture.
• Not cooling pasta properly: If you skip rinsing and cooling the pasta, it can make your salad warm and unappetizing. Rinse with cold water to cool it down quickly.
• Skipping seasoning adjustments: Not tasting and adjusting the dressing can result in a bland salad. Always sample and tweak flavors before serving.
• Adding too much dressing too early: If you add all the dressing right away, the pasta can absorb it and become dry. Save some dressing to add just before serving.
• Neglecting fresh herbs: Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor. Omitting them can make your salad less appealing. Always include fresh parsley or dill for a burst of freshness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

• Freezing is not recommended due to the creamy dressing; however, you may freeze components separately for better quality.
• If frozen, consume within 1-2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place salad in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container; heat in short intervals, stirring between until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad.

How can I customize Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad?

You can customize this salad by adding vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers. You could also use different proteins such as ham or roast beef for variety.

Can I make this Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad ahead of time?

Yes! This salad tastes even better after chilling in the fridge for a few hours or overnight, allowing flavors to meld together beautifully.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Short pasta varieties like penne, rotini, or fusilli work best because they hold onto the dressing and mix well with other ingredients.

Is Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and makes for a quick lunch option throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Chicken Turkey Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad is a delightful dish that brings together rich flavors and textures. It’s perfect as a side dish or main course and is easily customizable with your favorite ingredients. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a crowd favorite!