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–+ servings
Spicy Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad 1

Spicy Ranch Chicken Pasta Salad

This hearty and flavorful pasta salad works beautifully as both a satisfying lunch and a crowd-pleasing side dish. Featuring tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy, spicy ranch dressing that delivers a delightful kick.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Chilling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings
Calories 385 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Mixing Bowl
  • Medium Bowl for Dressing
  • Pasta Pot

Ingredients
  

Pasta Base

  • 8 oz rotini pasta substitute penne or farfalle for different texture profiles
  • 2 cups cooked chicken breast diced (rotisserie chicken works wonderfully)
  • 6 strips crispy bacon chopped (turkey bacon offers a leaner alternative)
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes halved
  • 1/2 cup red onion finely diced
  • 1 cup red bell pepper diced
  • 1/3 cup fresh cilantro chopped (parsley works for cilantro-averse diners)

Spicy Ranch Dressing

  • 3/4 cup ranch dressing Greek yogurt-based for a tangier, healthier option
  • 2-3 tablespoons hot sauce adjustable to taste
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper paprika for milder palates
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice adds a bright, citrusy dimension
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon honey balances heat with subtle sweetness

Instructions
 

  • Cook the rotini pasta according to package directions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Once done, drain thoroughly and rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and prevent sticking.
  • While the pasta cooks, prep your add-ins. If using raw chicken, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before cooking until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cook the bacon until crispy, then drain on paper towels before crumbling.
  • In a medium bowl, combine ranch dressing, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, lime juice, minced garlic, and honey. Whisk until perfectly incorporated.
  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooled pasta, diced chicken, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, diced red onion, bell pepper, and chopped cilantro. Pour the spicy ranch dressing over the mixture and toss thoroughly to ensure even coating.
  • Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, though 2 hours yields optimal flavor development. Before serving, give the salad another gentle toss and adjust seasonings if necessary.

Notes

For peak flavor, remove from refrigeration 15 minutes before serving to take the chill off. The pasta will absorb moisture, so what seems well-dressed initially may become dry after chilling. Consider reserving some extra dressing to refresh before serving.
This recipe maintains peak quality for 3-4 days when properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If preparing in advance, consider keeping the dressing separate until 2-3 hours before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 385kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 22gFat: 21gSodium: 615mgFiber: 3g
Keyword Pasta Salad, Chicken, Spicy Ranch, Summer Recipe, Make Ahead
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